Dolphins playmaker Kodi Nikorima has enjoyed some of the best footy of his career under Wayne Bennett but won't be distracted by the super-coach's move to South Sydney at the end of the season.
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He claimed spirits were high at Redcliffe after the seven-time premiership coach informed his charges of the reasons for his decision on Wednesday morning.
"There was actually a bit of joy because he was going to shout us all coffees and breakfast ... so most of the boys are happy," Nikorima said.
"We obviously all knew about it, that his time here was coming to an end at the end of the year, so it's not like it was a big shock to us.
"Felise Kaufusi is probably the happiest. I've never seen a bigger smile on his face knowing that he gets a free breakfast this morning."
Despite the constant media speculation around Bennett's move to Redfern, the Dolphins have maintained their hot form on the field, beating North Queensland, Manly and Wests Tigers in the last three matches.
A stern test away to the resurgent Warriors looms on Sunday, but the players are confident they remain free of distractions for the clash.
"You can look at the last month of footy that we've played, I think it (the speculation) has been going on for that long and I guess we've just all moved on with it," Nikorima said.
"I think a month ago (Bennett) said that, obviously he's off contract and if there's interest there he's going to look at it."
Nikorima earned his NRL breakthrough under Bennett at the Broncos and has been in top form after following his old mentor to the Dolphins.
But the 30-year-old is unlikely to pair up again with the old master at Souths, with a contract extension at the Dolphins on the table.
"It's all happy over here. I like this club and I like the direction they're heading, especially with (assistant coach) Kristian (Woolf) taking over at the end of the year, and I'm sure the Dolphins will be fine."
The squad was boosted by the return of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow from a hamstring injury in their 24-12 win over the Tigers on Sunday.
The fullback was electric, scoring a double as he showed Queensland selectors he was back at peak fitness.
"He's obviously (important), big time. Especially with his defence which he's worked on since last year," Nikorima said.
"Some of the tries he scores on the weekend, some players can't do that and it's just down to his pure speed. I'm grateful to have him on my side."
Australian Associated Press
