James Tedesco wants himself and Tom Trbojevic in NSW's State of Origin side, backing the Manly superstar to create havoc through the middle at centre.
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Trbojevic's stunning return from injury has prompted increased debate over whether he could take the NSW No.1 jersey from Tedesco on current form.
The Sea Eagles fullback has scored five tries and set up nine in his four games back, while his output against the Warriors on Sunday was the best of any player this year.
But the reality is Blues coach Brad Fittler would be hard-pressed picking him ahead of Tedesco.
While Trbojevic has played at centre and on the wing in club and representative football, Tedesco has only played No.1 for NSW and Australia.
Trbojevic defended at right centre in the 2019 series, and scored a hat-trick in Perth while effectively roaming as a second fullback in attack.
And that's how incumbent NSW captain Tedesco would like to see Fittler use the 24-year-old this year.
"I remember we played him at centre and I was the fullback in 2019 and it worked really well," Tedesco said.
"He was able to come through the middle and he created some havoc. Hopefully we're both in there together somewhere.
"Tommy (you could play him) anywhere. He's a freak, we have to get him in there."
Tedesco has grown used to talk of players challenging him for his status as chief No.1, after Ryan Papenhuyzen was anointed the main contender at the start of the year.
But the Sydney Roosters captain has never bought into the talk.
"Over the years I have learned that every year I get compared to a new fullback or different player," he said of Papenhuyzen's challenge in March.
"I don't want to put too much pressure on myself. I just go out and be me.
"If I am thinking about other players than that's taken away from myself."
Fellow Blues leaders are also adamant they want Trbojevic in the team, with NSW possessing five of the game's best six fullbacks.
The most likely scenario for June 9 in Melbourne is that Tedesco is at No.1, Latrell Mitchell at left centre, Trbojevic on the right and Papenhuyzen as utility.
Clint Gutherson would then likely be the unlucky man to miss out after playing right centre last year.
"(Tom) wouldn't be fullback, Teddy is fullback," hooker Damien Cook said.
"I'd have him at centre or wing. You would find a spot for him anywhere. As long as he is in the side."
Australian Associated Press
