Brisbane have dumped Sam Thaiday as the NRL club’s captain, with veteran Corey Parker to take over the role.

The Broncos made the announcement on Friday, ending Thaiday’s time as the club’s leader since Darren Lockyer’s retirement in 2011.

The Queensland State of Origin player’s form slipped, along with that of the team.

The Broncos struggled into the finals in eighth spot in 2012 before missing out last year when they slumped to 12th place, the worst finish in their 25-year history.

“The coach thought it best for myself and my team if I don’t have added responsibility of captain,” said Thaiday.

The club has scheduled a second media conference at 2pm (AEDT), when it’s expected to unveil Parker as the new captain.

Thaiday said Griffin came to see him to discuss stepping down from the captaincy when he returned from Australia’s successful World Cup campaign.

He made it clear he accepted the decision.

“This is my 11th season with the club and I have every intention of staying here,” Thaiday said.

“This was a team decision and I’m a team man.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to play the best football I can play.

“I still want to play that leadership role and, just because I don’t have that title, won’t stop me.”

Under pressure to improve the Broncos’ results, Griffin said he’d had to make a tough call with the popular Thaiday.

“My role is not to always tell people what they want to hear,” said Griffin. “By not addressing what I see as a coach, I’m not helping the player.

“Sam’s going to be a more consistent and relaxed player without those responsibilities.

“The bottom line for Sam and myself is for him to be at his best. That’s my motivation with him.

“He’s still going to be a massive part of the leadership within the club.”