Bundee Aki could still be a part of the Connacht future, but a summer departure would have little impact on his legacy at the Sportsground, according to Bernard Jackman.
The 32-year-old centre has notably absent from the squad in recent weeks, with his last appearance coming in the defeat to Ulster just before Christmas.
It's believed the former Chiefs man is contracted to the IRFU until the end of 2024, though recent developments have increased speculation over an earlier exit.
Speaking on Game On, former Ireland and Leinster hooker Jackman says much will depend on what happens post Six Nations
"The key now is he goes to Irish camp, and when he goes back to Connacht after Irish camp, does he play?
"There's no doubt Bundee Aki on top form starts for Connacht every week, but for whatever reason, he hasn’t played a huge amount since the November internationals.
"It’s there to be resolved. It can be resolved, but also we have to understand that it might not be resolved, and that’s okay."
Friend insisted this week he had no regrets over leaving his star centre out of the squad for last week's Challenge Cup game against Newcastle Falcons, where a 35-21 defeat saw them miss out on home advantage in the last-16, stating it was a selection based on form.
Jackman says that even if it is an issue between the two men, it is far from insurmountable.
"If the issue is with Aki and Friend, and we’re not sure that is the issue, that’s an easy fix as Friend’s not there next year.
"It’s a case of finding out who the new head coach is, for them to talk to the player and sell Connacht as being the best place for Bundee to be.
"If for whatever reason that relationship is going to finish at the end of the season, so be it. Players move.
"His legacy in Connacht is very strong.
"Hopefully getting the Six Nations break – I think he will be a key man for Ireland – he can go back and have a big end of season with Connacht and next year is the player he has been for most of his career there."
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