NAT FYFE is prepared for the speculation that will surround him as long as he remains out of contract, but concedes he could be forced to make a snap decision on his future if such off-field talk is affecting him or Fremantle.
Fyfe is set to become a restricted free agent at the end of this season, when, if still uncontracted, he would attract long-term offers of more than $1 million a year.
The 25-year-old was named Fremantle captain on Tuesday but reiterated to SEN radio his appointment would not fast-track his contract discussions with the Dockers.
Fyfe has typically delayed re-signing with the Dockers until late in the final season of his existing contract, but could change that approach if speculation about his future starts having a negative impact on him, his teammates or Fremantle.
"I've stated all along that I see my future being with Fremantle and I've always signed contracts in the mid-to-late part of my last year of the contract and that was always going to be the case (this year)," Fyfe said.
"I'll monitor [the speculation] closely and if I feel at any point that it's affecting me, or more importantly the team or the club, then I'll look to do something pretty quickly.
"But I saw how Patrick (Dangerfield) handled it (last year) and how other players have handled it and there is an element of motivation that you draw out of the chaos that goes on with that speculation.
"If you can turn it into some positive fuel to play better footy, then I'm all for it."
Fyfe completed an 80-minute scratch match on Wednesday as his rehabilitation from a broken left leg continues to run smoothly.
Fyfe did not play after round five last season after suffering his second leg fracture in eight months, but said his 2017 pre-season had gone extremely well.
"I'm excited for round one," he said.