Re-signed Flegler wants to lead Brisbane revival

Broncos forward Thomas Flegler wants to take on further leadership responsibility in 2021 after inking a new two-year contract extension with the club on Tuesday.

Flegler was a man in demand but the Townsville junior opted to stay at Red Hill beyond next season, indicating the mood around the club was upbeat following the arrival of new coach Kevin Walters.

Walters has brought with him former Bronco Terry Matterson and foundation Titans coach John Cartwright as his assistants, offering the squad a fresh start after a tumultuous 2020 campaign.

"I would love to be a leader at this club, everyone talks about how much of a young forward pack we've got but we don't look at it that way," Flegler said on Tuesday.

"There's been a whole new feel around the club … a lot more energetic compared to last season.

"I can't say a lot because I've been in rehab for most of the time so don't do a lot of the team activities but the boys are all happy with how it's going.

"It's been good so far, we've only been back for three weeks but this is where all the work is done to get good results in the season.

"We're all working towards a fresh start and I believe we've got the team here to get results for the Broncos."

Flegler was reluctant to discuss the prospect of former Cowboys forward John Asiata coming on board next season after the Broncos released Joe Ofahengaue to the Wests Tigers.

He also fended off questions surrounding the future of Broncos teammate Matt Lodge, preferring to instead talk about his own decision to re-sign.

Flegler said he had no desire to leave the Broncos as he looks to build on his tally of 36 NRL appearances.

"I was always going to stay at the Broncos, I've been at the club a while now," he said.

"I love Brisbane and have got plenty of good mates and I'm keen to see where the club is going to head in the future.

"I'm confident it's a bright future, we've got a good coaching staff and good team. We're building towards a good 2021 season."

Flegler was confident he will be fit for round one against the Eels in three months after undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery in August.

"The shoulder is coming along good, taking it week-by-week, it's a progression thing at the moment so training hard with pre-season," he said.

"Injuries aren't something you want and everyone is a bit nervous and touchy coming back but with a few games you get back into the gist of things.

"I'm halfway through my rehab. Hopefully, I'll be back into full contact sometime after Christmas."