Michael Maguire has brushed off speculation about a rift developing between him and departing Brisbane star Selwyn Cobbo, as the flyer prepares to return from exile.
The Broncos star hasn’t been sighted in the NRL since he was axed by Maguire ahead of Round 13.
And plenty of water has passed under the bridge since the coach’s bold decision, with Cobbo announcing his departure from Red Hill at the end of the season.
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Michael Maguire denies Selwyn Cobbo rift at the Broncos
Cobbo will join the Dolphins on a one-year deal after being unable to agree terms for an extension at Brisbane.
The Cherbourg product's exit has sparked speculation that his relationship with Maguire disintegrated after being cut from the side.
However, the former New South Wales and New Zealand mentor dismissed this notion ahead of Cobbo’s return to the side against Canterbury.
"I have a lot of time for ‘Selly’, he’s a great young man," Maguire said. "There’s no issue at all."
Cobbo will take over from Reece Walsh, who was named as the 18th man for Queensland, at fullback as the Broncos attempt to extend upon their three-game winning streak.
The last time they faced the Dogs was in Round 8 when Cobbo also wore the No.1 jersey.
Maguire’s side put on a show at Suncorp on that rain-soaked night, handing Canterbury their first loss of the season, thanks to a 42-18 result.
Yet the rout proved to be Cobbo’s only successful game at the back for the Broncos as they went on to lose their next three matches with him in the position.
The 23-year-old eventually returned to the wing against Manly but could do nothing to stop his team’s spiral.
The 34-6 loss to the Sea Eagles proved to be the final straw for Maguire, who dropped Cobbo to the QLD Cup the following week.
However, the Origin decider has now ultimately proved to be Cobbo’s gateway back into the side via Walsh's call-up. And Maguire admitted he expected Cobbo to be warmly received by the rest of his teammates and Brisbane fans this week.
"Selly’s obviously a crowd favourite, but unfortunately, you can’t keep everyone," Maguire said.
"As much as you talk about turbulence, we have worked through things and Selly is now focused on playing with his teammates.
"I always like to think that I reward players on their performances," Maguire continued.
"He’s been able to do that. Selly’s performing now to where I want him. If he performs, he will be in the side."