Fonua-Blake's game day act a telling sign to Warriors loyalty

As Warriors players filtered into Go Media Stadium for Sunday afternoon's clash with the Dolphins, Addin Fonua-Blake was sweating it out in the gym next to the NRL changing rooms. 

At the end of a week full of speculation about his immediate playing future in Auckland, after he was stood down for breaching team standards seven days prior, the 28-year-old's decision to be present and workout on match day might be the most significant sign yet that he remains committed to the club for the rest of 2024. 

The reigning Dally M Prop of the Year was also said to have been among the group's best trainers on Thursday, as news of the action taken against him was made public. 

Speaking to NRL.com after the Warriors' thrilling 24-20 win over the Dolphins, club CEO Cameron George said he's got no doubt they will continue to see the best of Fonua-Blake for the remainder of the year, before he joins the Sharks in 2025.

"He's been here working his backside off today and he will be very proud of the boys tonight and will be there celebrating with everyone," George said. 

He will be back, him and Webby (coach Andrew Webster) are working together and we'll move on.

Cameron George

"We love him at the club... he's a great part of our footy club, a great part of our season this year."

In reference to his no-show in the dressing rooms after the upset win over the Panthers at Magic Round, George pointed to Fonua-Blake's competitive nature and said the prop accepts he needs to channel it in a better way. 

"Addin wants to win at all costs and when he has his frustrations, we all have to control them better," George said. 

"Addin has understood he did the wrong thing... it was in the best interests of him, the team and everyone to understand the standards."

Webster meanwhile reiterated in his post-match press conference that the club never received any request or indication from Fonua-Blake and his management that he wanted an immediate release from the Warriors. 

"Him or his agent have not at any point given me that indication," Webster said. 

"Ads has been clear that yep, he needs to be better. His agent has never once said that he wants to leave.

"I take them to their word on that."

The planned return of Fonua-Blake in Round 14 following the club's bye will come as a huge boost to an injury-hit Warriors roster, with nine frontline players currently out of action. 

In 11 games this season the Tonga Test star has averaged 177 run metres and scored five tries.