Despite being content at playing the 2019 season as a winger for the Blues and the All Blacks, Rieko Ioane is still hopeful of one day establishing himself in midfield.
Ioane, 21, made his early name in New Zealand rugby circles as a centre for Auckland Grammar School, before emerging as a star for the New Zealand Sevens side.
Time in midfield for both Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup followed, however it's on the wing that Ioane's star has really taken off, now easily Steve Hansen's first choice number 11 for the All Blacks, and widely held as the best in the world.
Speaking to 1 NEWS today, Ioane says that he'll stay on the wing for 2019, with both the All Blacks and Blues, unless he's told otherwise.
"With the sort of year that's in place, I want to be the best in the world at one position," he began.
The All Blacks' winger says he’s happy to play anywhere for his country. (Source: Other)
"Focussing on wing will be the priority, if Leon [MacDonald] or Tana [Umaga] finds that I need to switch anywhere, then I'm capable of doing that.
"But for me, pushing through this year especially - I just want to be the best wing in the world."
However, despite his status in the outside backs, Ioane says he's always hopeful of a return to the centre of the park.
"I do see it as being a prospect.
Speaking to ONE News last week, 19-year-old Rieko Ioane makes it clear that centre is where he hopes to play his rugby going forward. (Source: Other)
"That's sort of been the long story - 'he's going to eventually move to midfield.'
"I'm happy enough to play wherever, I'm loving my time on the wing.
"That's where things are going best for me so I'll enjoy it."
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