Michael Maguire denies rumours of fall-out with South Sydney-bound prop

However, Maguire said Haas was surprised by the Rabbitoh’s move.

“Yes, it did. You never want those things to happen,” Maguire said. “But everyone goes through a phase that’s right for where they are. Payne-o has certainly talked to me about his family and the various reasons why, so I’ll leave it up to him to discuss those. For us, we’ll enjoy our time.” [we have left].

“We’re definitely living in the moment, but it’s always difficult to find out one of your players is leaving, especially with Payne’s talent.

“From our perspective, we’re going to enjoy the next nine months with him because that’s what we’ve got. In our game, people retire and move on for their own reasons. What we’ve got now is Payne, who I’ve been lucky enough to have some incredible times with at Origin and in the premiership last year.

“He’s focused on having a great year with the teammates he’s been with for a long time. That’s where we are.”

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Even before his Origin and premiership victories, Haas was widely regarded as the best backer of his generation. Considering he is only 26 and front-row players typically peak in their late 20s, his best football is arguably ahead of him.

Asked where Haas ranks among the all-time greats, Maguire said: “I think everyone can see where he would rank.

“In addition to what he’s doing, he also wants to do well with his playing group this year. He’s working alongside one of the best front-rowers there. I’ve had the chance to coach him and be part of a chapter in his career.”

“We are doing everything we can to achieve the same goal as we did last year.”

The challenge now for Brisbane is to find a replacement for Haas at a time when there are few options on the open market.

“We have players inside us,” Maguire said. “When people look at the Broncs they are a pretty special club.

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“Whether we look at it from the outside or the inside, it’s going to get better. I think we’ve got some good young guys coming through. Now look at the talent of the guys we’ve got with Payne-o – Xavier [Willison]patty [Carrigan]aublix [Tawha] Here comes Corey Jensen. “We have people who will enjoy this year.”

All eyes will be on Reece Walsh during the World Club Challenge. Maguire, who disputed his exploits for club and country at the end of last season, believes the superstar full-back can improve.

“If everyone does their part, he can keep doing the things he’s been doing,” Maguire said. “He’s an exciting guy, everyone loves watching him. If he focuses on his teammates and does his part, his game will continue to improve and change.

“That’s something he has within himself, the ability to want to get better and better… There’s no reason why Reece can’t continue to improve.”