The questions were always going to come but Billy Slater has affirmed his stance that he is yet to make a decision on his playing future.
The 35-year-old has just emerged from his final State of Origin series for Queensland after calling time on his representative career.
A decision though on Slater's playing future beyond this season is still an ongoing thought in the back of the champion fullback's mind.
"It will be everything," Slater said.
"It will be my body, it will be my mind, whether I can give 100 per cent next year and until I've made up my mind I'm not prepared to come out and say whether I am or not.
"That will be a big part, how the body feels and how it is pulling up from games. That was my question to myself last year."
Storm Media: Billy Slater
Seeing the likes of Jahrome Hughes come of age at NRL level will not factor into Slater's decision but it does give him piece of mind knowing that eventually when he does depart, the future of Melbourne Storm is in good hands.
"It is great for the Club," Slater said.
"We've had guys come through the Club in the past, Cameron Munster, Brodie Croft, young Brandon Smith, the Club is in good hands.
"The Club is doing at great job at bringing these young guys in and turning them into consistent first grade footballers.
"With Craig at the helm for another three years it is in a good position to move forward."
