"I've got my work cut out for me"

Competition is what veteran Jamie Buhrer thrives on.

Last season the versatile forward was the utility go-to off the bench.

He featured in 20 games for the season playing in the back row, hooker and centre.

He even had a go at five-eighth, to produce that memorable kick to winger Shaun Kenny-Dowall in Tamworth to steal victory against the Wests Tigers.

This season, the 29-year-old will have a fight on his hands to retain his spot.

Buhrer admits it won’t be easy going.

“I’ll be working my hardest to get there,” said Buhrer.

“It’s no secret we had Kurt (Mann) come to the club and he’s been brought in specifically to be that utility.

“I’ve got my work cut out for me.

“I can play multiple positions so whether I play NRL in Round 1, I’m going to work my hardest to make sure I’m in that conversation and hopefully in the 17 at some point.”

Buhrer was named in jersey No.18 for the Knights' opening round clash with Cronulla on Friday. 

The Knights veteran admits it’s a long season, anything can happen, and he’ll hang in there.

“You only have to look at some of the best teams that are in grand finals, like the Melbourne Storm, they have a very strong squad,” explained Buhrer.

“They have a lot of first graders to play in their reserve grade team by virtue of the strength of their squad.

“We’re starting to build that depth here and we’re going to need it because it’s a long season, injuries can happen, suspensions so it’s good to have that depth.”

Will it add more motivation to his game?

Most definitely according to Buhrer.

But the most important factor, being there late in September.

“It is what it is,” Buhrer said.

“I can’t go out and say I want to be part of a successful team and then be upset by competition, so I’m glad we have that competition here at the club because I want to be in finals.

“That’s going to make us better, that’s going to push our game, it’s going to push everyone’s game, and that’s only for the better of the club.”