'It's done wonders': Palasia's early start helping bid for starting role

Cutting short his break after a heartbreaking grand final appearance and Pacific Championships showing with Samoa in order to be back on deck for his new club, Palasia feels he is now reaping the rewards to hit the ground running with just under two months remaining until the season opener.

"[Coming in early] was very important, especially because I didn't know all the plays and stuff like that," he said.

"Post Christmas, we've been really focussing on the trial matches and Round 1, so to get in before the break and learn all the plays, I think it's done wonders for me."

Yet to have a formal conversation with Hasler about his role or place in the team, Palasia isn't expecting to just be gifted a place in the team... in fact, the 53-gamer has revealed his is happy to play in any role the experienced mentor bestows him of.

"We haven't really had any conversations yet along those lines, but we're just trying to find the best kind of chemistry between the forward pack and see how we will work together," Palasia said.

"I'll play anywhere he wants... I'll peel oranges for him if you if he needs that, but wherever Des puts me, I'll play.

"I didn't come here expecting to slot straight straight into the 17 with players like Tino, Moey, Joe Stimson and Isaac Liu.

"I just came down here wanting to put my best foot forward and hopefully, I can get a good crack."

But Palasia has admitted he has one eye on a starting jersey for the season opener - a goal he would expect the entire Titans squad to have this pre-season.

"I think any NRL player would be lying if they said they didn't want to start," he said.

"Hopefully, I can start... but wherever Des wants to play me, I'll play there.

"Even if it's not in the team, I'll just have to play my best footy (in Queensland Cup) and try and force my way into the team."