Cody Walker appears set for a stunning return to NSW State of Origin but on Wednesday said he has one goal - to win an NRL premiership.
The South Sydney star is in sparkling form for the Rabbitohs heading into Saturday's preliminary final against Penrith, putting him in the frame for a Blues return after his sensational axing last year.
Walker was one of a number of players dropped bt coach Brad Fittler after NSW lost game one of last year's series and took time to rediscover his form for Souths.
But in 2020 he has surged back into contention with freakish performances in the NRL, leading the Rabbitohs to their best attacking form in more than a century.
Fittler has indicated to Nine Media that Walker could edge out Sydney Roosters star Luke Keary for the five-eighth role, saying the Souths ace deserves it.
Fittler said Walker had some distractions around him last year and the Blues coach preferred to pick players who are free of outside disruptions.
But in what will be music to Fittler's ears, Walker has declared his sole focus is on delivering Souths a premiership.
"To be honest, and this is no disrespect to the Blues or Brad Fittler, and I'm sure they'll understand where I'm coming from, but Origin is the last thing on my mind," he said on Wednesday.
"I'm very focused.
"All my energy is going into this weekend.
"My goal is to win a premiership and the first step to that is this weekend against the minor premiers who have been the best team all year.
"That sort of stuff can look after itself after the season is done. I really want to win the comp."
Walker will face a stiff test against Blues halfback Nathan Cleary in Saturday's preliminary final at ANZ Stadium and will need to put in a good performance to seal Origin selection.
Cleary has been one of the most dominant players in the competition this season, driving the Panthers to 16-straight NRL wins.
Shutting down Cleary will go a long way to helping Souths to the grand final.
"He's got a great kicking game, he's all about energy he's a great defender, he's been a great leader in their side this year," Walker said.
"He's playing on the ball more than he has in previous years so it's a big indicator for us where the ball is going to go.
"Off the field he's a great guy, I roomed with him in Origin.
"I've only played one game with him so I don't really know his game inside and out but he's a great player."
