PAUL Gallen has never been one player short of motivation.

When it comes to winning, the Cronulla skipper is as driven as they come.

But on Monday night the fearless Shark will lead his men onto Allianz Stadium to face the Roosters with a heavy heart.

Gallen had ‘KIERAN’ written on his wrist tape during New South Wales’ victorious game three of this year’s State of Origin series against Queensland.

Gallen took to social media on Sunday to express his sadness that his “little mate” had passed away.

The veteran declared Kieran an inspiration and will write his name on his wrist for the rest of the season.

“So sad to hear my little mate Kieren has lost his battle,” Gallen wrote on social media.

“I called him Wednesday to say hi but he was sleeping.

“I was told his dream was to have his name on a player’s wrist.

“(You) inspired me Kieren I’ll write your name every game the rest of this year and hopefully we can make your last dream come true.”

The Sharks sit second on the NRL ladder with a 14th straight victory against the Roosters set to put them back in first place.

Meanwhile, Shane Flanagan is confident Gallen will shun retirement for one final NRL season and play for Cronulla in their 50th year in 2017.

Gallen is off-contract with the Sharks at season’s end after signing a one-year deal last year.

The Cronulla skipper retired from State of Origin after NSW’s win in game three on Wednesday and is yet to commit to the Sharks beyond this year.

Gallen has always said he would make a decision on his NRL future post-Origin and Flanagan believes he will play his 17th season of first grade in 2017, 50 years after the Sharks were founded in 1967.

“I am sure Gal will play next year,” Flanagan said.

“I would love to see Gal turn up and play in the club’s 50th year next year.

“Hopefully we are playing in the last game of the year this year and going into our 50th year next year I think it would be great for Gal to go around again.”