Don't let the mullet fool you, Andrew Fifita has emerged as one of Cronulla's key leaders during one of the most uncertain times in the club's history.

Interim Cronulla coach John Morris might not be sure if he will replace Shane Flanagan on a full-time basis, but he is certain Fifita is having the right sort of impact on Cronulla's next generation.

Fifita believes the time he spent in camp with Tonga last season before the historic Test against Australia in October gave him extra confidence to guide the club's young forwards.

Hair apparent: Andrew Fifita sports his new look at Cronulla training. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer

Plenty of officials in the Shire had noticed something change in Fifita on the back of the 2017 World Cup, and in good news for Sharks fans, the prop is already showing signs he will take on even more responsibility.