NRL: Luck hoping to remain in Auckland

Micheal Luck is playing for a fair few things tonight.

The workhorse lock is playing to help the Warriors notch a first win of the season. He's playing to make his 100th appearance for the club memorable. And he's also probably playing for a new contract.

Recruitment manager Dean Bell has made it clear that the first few months of this season are a trial period during which he will assess the club's needs. For the players coming off contract at the end of the year - of which Luck is one - it's definitely best foot forward time.

"If you play good enough footie that stuff takes care of itself," Luck said.

"I'd love to stay here. The club has been really good for me and I love living over here but it is not something I'm really too worried about yet. If it comes it comes but it is not something that keeps me awake at night. Ask me in a few more months and it could be a different story.

"I just really want to play well and get the team playing well so we can get results and get up the ladder a bit."

It's hard to imagine the 27-year-old Queenslander not being in the club's future plans. A natural leader in a side not overly blessed with them, the regular stand-in captain is a tireless worker. Every club needs a grafter in the pack. The problem for Luck is that the Warriors have three, one of whom is captain Simon Mannering. The other, Jacob Lillyman, has already had his card marked as a future prop.

Undoubtedly a desire exists at the club to bring more ball-playing into the back row. Luck has shown signs of developing that side of his game but he will never be a natural.

Despite his limitations, Luck is a vital cog in the Warriors. It would be a big call for a struggling club to part with a player who is week-in week-out one of their best.

"I've had a good four years here," he said. "From where I was when I first came here - I suppose maybe an interchange player at best - I am pretty proud of what I've done.

"I've enjoyed every minute I've had here. While there have been tough times, that's what makes you appreciate the good times. [Hopefully] we go well [tonight] and for the rest of the year to make it memorable."