The Dragons' form has lifted considerably since the return from suspension of prop and co-captain Craig Smith, a week after the debacle against Melbourne. Smith has led the team by example with his power play and it has certainly had the right effect on Thompson. He'll make as many hit-ups as anyone else in a game and each one of them will be quality. He's very tough and he can play injured. He hurt his knee against Newcastle and had to go off, but he came back on and everyone knew it was hard for him.
Players respond when they see that sort of courage from a teammate.
We all look up to Craig as a leader. Thompson plays like a captain himself, which is what he was for most of his junior career. I don't think it hurts my game. I think it encourages me to concentrate harder. It's probably a long way off before I get a chance to captain first grade, but it would be an honour.