Broncos teammates back Tevita Pangai Jnr amid Sydney Roosters speculation

Brisbane players are backing Tevita Pangai Jnr to stay at Red Hill despite growing speculation the Tongan Torpedo is being courted by a cashed-up Sydney club.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 14: Tevita Pangai Jnr of the Broncos runs with the ball during the round one NRL match between the Melbourne Storm and the Brisbane Broncos at AAMI Park on March 14, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

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Brisbane players are backing Tevita Pangai Jnr to stay put amid speculation about his playing future.

The 23-year-old demolished the Cowboys in Round 2 before crashing back to earth against the Dragons but hasn’t escaped the spotlight this week with rumours Sydney will make a play for his signature next season circulating.

Broncos prop Joe Ofahengaue is eager to keep his fellow front-rower at Red Hill and admitted his retention was a “big thing” for the club.

“Everyone knows what Tevita brings every weekend. He’s got a lot of skill for a big fella … so I’d just wish him all the best and I hope we keep him,” he said.

Tevita Pangai Jnr’s playing future is up in the air with the Sydney Roosters believed to have shown interest in his signature (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)

Brisbane centre Jack Bird said these were difficult circumstances for young players.

“It is hard, especially when you come into first grade and you start playing a few good games and the media starts coming to your door and all that stuff, it is hard to not read about yourself.”

“Tevita doesn't have Facebook or Instagram or all that kind of stuff so I’m not sure if he’s reading the papers or anything but it is hard as a young fella coming through because you like to know what’s being said about you.

“He had a great game last week but he’s just got to stay focused and keep his head on his shoulders and try not to think too far ahead.”