Michael Morgan believes the absence of Johnathan Thurston has given him the opportunity to take his game to a level it may not have reached had his halves partner still been available.

Morgan has replaced the game's best player to become, according to Roosters coach Trent Robinson, the game's best player. Most pundits expected North Queensland to bow out of the title race the moment Thurston's season ended, but they didn't count on Morgan stepping up to become a genuine leader of his side.

With the No.7 on his back, the Maroons playmaker has matured into one of the game's elite and steered the Cowboys to within one game of the grand final.

"Playing halfback, that just comes with it, the way I play," Morgan said. "I probably touch the ball the most of the players in the side so it's important I'm clear with what I'm doing. I'm allowed a voice on the field.