"It was tough with myself playing not as well as I should've and the team not going well. I was disappointed because I thought I would be home in Queensland for three years. But that's footy, and you can't have everything your way.

"People don't realise the mental side of rugby league. When your confidence is down it's very hard to put out a good performance. That's something I really need to work on. When I do it'll be easier for me to focus and concentrate on my job."

An indifferent 2014 resulted in his switching between fullback and five-eighth for the Broncos. While Barba has doubts if he can reproduce his scintillating 2012 form, he said he had not felt as comfortable in a team since helping lead the Bulldogs to a grand final appearance in his breakthrough year.

"I always think that," Barba said. "It's hard to say it because that year was really really good. To do something like that again would be pretty special. I don't have to be the star in this side. It's not just about me now, it's about the team. I need to get my smile back and the happier I am the performances will get better.

"I have found a new home here and they made me feel welcomed. That's what I might have needed – a bit of love. I thought at the start [moving here] it would've been tough. People at this club, Shane [Flanagan] and the board have made me feel really welcomed."