St George Illawarra Dragons star Zac Lomax has been one of the most discussed players in the early stages of the 2024 season, for both good and bad reasons.
Prior to Round One, Lomax had been shifted from centre to wing and almost instantaneously requested a release from the club despite playing career-best football in his new position.
As the weeks progressed, Lomax continued his strong form and found his name brought into discussions for a potential debut for the NSW Blues in this year’s State of Origin.
The outgoing Dragons’ back is now seen as a favourite to occupy one of the two wing positions for Michael Maguire’s squad but Lomax isn’t reading into the headlines.
“It gives you some confidence knowing that people are saying you’re playing some good footy," Lomax told SEN 1170 Mower's Club.
“I guess I’m just worried about for me at the Dragons, previously we haven’t had the greatest of years… I’m just worried about being the best teammate I can, just performing every week and that’s what I love doing.
“The minute we start winning a few more games, hopefully the whole team is talking about playing State of Origin.
“So for me, I’m just worried about putting my best foot forward every week for the Red V and the rest of it will take care of itself.”
Reflecting on his well-documented off-field dilemmas, Lomax was quick to brush off any concern and re-affirmed his commitment to the Dragons for the rest of the season.
“There’s always a fair bit of noise going around in rugby league,” Lomax added.
“I just worry about what I can control and that’s just about going and being the best teammate, I love them (my teammates), I’d never let them down, I love the club.
“To bring up 100 games in the Red V was a massive milestone for myself, my team and my family.
“I pride myself on just being a footy player, I like chasing the footy and being around the ball, so wherever it is I just love playing footy.”
The Eels officially confirmed during the week that Lomax would join the club at the end of this season on a four-year deal worth around $600,000 per season.