League: Hoffman could cut Kiwi ties

Kiwis fullback Josh Hoffman in action against Australia in 2012. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Josh Hoffman's manager has given his strongest hint yet that his charge will consider cutting his Kiwi ties after a New Zealand Four Nations snub.

But if he is eyeing Australia, Queensland-born Hoffman won't be eligible to play State of Origin under rules ushered in at the end of 2012.

Hoffman's agent Paul Hogan said his client had yet to make up his mind about switching allegiances after being a notable omission from New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney's Four Nations squad.

"It was slightly disappointing more than anything. He's not particularly worried about that," Hogan told AAP.

"Whatever decisions he makes, that is for the future."

But bear this in mind - Josh was born in Mackay, played Queensland under 19s in league and union, played Queensland Residents and lived in Queensland his whole life."

However, rules on the NRL website state Hoffman would not be eligible for Origin.

New rules approved by the Australian Rugby League Commission in December 2012 state "to qualify for State of Origin you must be eligible and elect to play for Australia and have not represented another tier one nation at senior level (England/New Zealand)".

Hoffman has played for New Zealand since the edict passed in late 2012, notching a total of five tests in the black and white.Hogan said Hoffman - who has a Kiwi dad - had taken Kearney's snub in his stride.

"He wasn't emotional. He's a pretty even-tempered guy - he's resilient," he said.

Hogan said Hoffman's first priority was considering his NRL future after receiving permission from the Broncos to talk to rival clubs.

Up to five clubs are reportedly keen on the ex-Kiwi fullback but Canterbury may no longer be an option if Dragons' flyer Brett Morris joins his brother Josh at the Bulldogs.

Gold Coast Titans are believed to be the latest to show interest with a centre vacancy to fill but Hogan said Hoffman's first preference would be to play fullback.

"Fullback is his preferred position at the moment so initially we will look at clubs who can play him there but you never rule anything out," he said.

"We will weigh all our options up and hopefully come to a decision by Christmas."

- AAP