Gold Coast player of the year AJ Brimson is edging closer to an England debut in the Ashes after a ringing endorsement from coach Shaun Wane.
Wane will finalise his 24-man squad next month to take on Australia in the first three-Test Ashes series in England since 2003.
Brimson, who has played four games for Queensland in State of Origin, had his request to switch international eligibility from Australia to England approved by an International Rugby League Tribunal in May.
That was music to the ears of Wane as he prepares to name a squad of quality to try and take down the Kangaroos.
Brimson, 27, qualifies for England through his mother Vanessa and Wane said he was right in the frame to be chosen in the squad which will contest the first Test at Wembley Stadium on October 25.
"I was very pleased when AJ said he wanted to play for England and we are continuing to consider him," Wane told AAP.
"He's a very versatile player, which is perfect for a three-Test series.
"He is a player I rate very highly and a good athlete. In a team that was struggling this year, he has always stood out."
Wane said he had been speaking to Brimson about his Ashes plans, along with other NRL-based players who are eligible for the series.
Brimson played fullback, five-eighth and centre this year for the Titans on the way to winning the Paul Broughton Medal as club player of the year.
"To play for England is something that I have dreamt of," Brimson said.
"To be part of an Ashes series, there hasn't been one for 22 years ... so it's going to be a cool achievement.
"Fingers crossed, if I get the chance it is going to be an amazing opportunity to represent England on my mum's side. I've got a lot of family over there.
"The season is over but I will keep training hard and hope for that call."
Brimson played his best football this year at fullback but the late-season return from injury of New Zealand No.1 Keano Kini means he will likely have to play elsewhere in 2026..
The 27-year-old will do whatever incoming Titans coach Josh Hannay wants next season but he prefers to play in the spine.
"Versatility is good but it also has its downfalls so I am just trying to lock in a position for 2026," Brimson said.
"My favourite position is fullback but I like being in the spine. I like being at one or at six and getting my hands on the footy and having a say and impact in how we play in attack.
"I would much rather play six than left centre next year."
The player of the year award was the first for Brimson since making his debut at the Titans in 2018
"It is something I always wanted to win but you start getting into your career and you think, 'I don't know if it is going to come'," he said.
"It is a tough award to win so I am just happy to get one to my name. I am stoked to get it."
