These days, Anthony Milford reckons he doesn’t read the newspaper.
It’s probably for the best.
Avoiding rugby league websites and switching off the TV sports report might be a good idea, too.
Milford’s quiet start as Broncos pivot looms as the major talking point before Friday night’s NRL second-round clash with Cronulla.
Brisbane never promised miracles before Milford officially began his transition from fullback in Brisbane’s 36-6 NRL opening loss to South Sydney last week.
Still, Milford’s underwhelming display had some critics already questioning the move.
Phil Gould even claimed Milford was “not physically mature enough” to play pivot.
But Milford reckons he is oblivious to outside influences.
Exploding onto the scene as a much-hyped Canberra fullback before the Brisbane move, Milford reckoned he learnt to switch off the noise a long time ago.
“I stay away from the papers,” he said.
“I’ve got a good supporter base around me that keeps me level-headed – mum and dad do a good job at that.”
Not that Milford had to be told he was battling at five-eighth.
The softly spoken playmaker admitted it was time he found his voice on field.
“I was honestly a little disappointed in myself in how I got into the game,” he said.
“I was a little slow to start. I kind of waited for opportunities to arise. Usually, I take them.
“This week I want to get early touches and be involved more, get my head in the game, not go into my shell.”
Not that Milford was going to ignore the talent around him in order to finally shine on the Broncos stage.
“I like to run the ball, but I have good players around me which I am not going to waste,” said Milford, who believed it was a matter of time before he clicked with halves partner Ben Hunt.
“And when Hodgo (captain Justin Hodges) wants it, that overrides it – but it’s good to see those game changers in your team.”
Asked if he felt pressure, Milford said: “Not really.
“I know the No.6 jersey has been worn by some of the greats.
“I am just trying to do my part.
“On Thursday night (against South Sydney) I don’t think I lived up to that.
“I will try to make amends this week.”
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