James Tedesco on Blues Origin recall: ‘I’m happy with that’

Sydney Roosters skipper James Tedesco says he’s feeling no pressure to earn a recall to the NSW State of Origin squad.

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Speaking ahead of the Round 10 clash against the Titans in Gosford, the 23-game Origin veteran and former Blues captain admitted there’s been plenty of external chatter about the fullback battle between himself and Panthers No.1 Dylan Edwards, but he’s paying little attention to it.

“There’s a lot of external talk, but I don’t really think too much about it,” Tedesco said.

“Nothing really changes for me and how I go about my business every week, it’s a coach’s decision on what he wants to do there and I’ll just keep putting my best forward, playing the best footy I can and we’ll see what happens.”

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‘The desire is always going to be there’ admits Tedesco

Arguably in the best form of his distinguished NRL career, the reigning 2025 Dally M Medalist made it clear he still covets the Sky Blue No.1 jersey, but should Laurie Daley and the NSW selectors choose to go another way, he’s happy to focus on the Roosters.

“I’m not putting myself under immense pressure that I need to make this team,” the 33-year-old declared.

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“The desire and passion to play for NSW is always going to be there for me.

“I know that if I’m putting full focus and leadership into (the Roosters) that will bring out the best in me and that will create those opportunities. 

“If that doesn’t happen and the coaches decide to go another way, then I’m happy with that too.”

Tedesco last played Origin in Game I of the 2024 series when the Blues were defeated 38-10 by Queensland at Accor Stadium in Sydney.

Initially dropped by NSW coach Michael Maguire ahead of Game I, he earned a last-minute recall after an injury to Dylan Edwards.

He was then replaced by Edwards for the remaining two matches as NSW came back to win the series 2-1.

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