Todd Carney. Photo / Getty Images
Todd Carney has declared he is mentally prepared for the demands of State Of Origin football.
Cronulla's five-eighth says his NRL club form and steady state of mind have convinced him he is ready for rugby league's toughest arena.
"I feel mentally right to go,'' he said.
"A few years ago, I probably wasn't.
"I'm ready to put my hand up to have a go. If I do get that opportunity, I will give it all I've got.
"Everyone is fighting for that position. It doesn't matter who you are or where you have been, beating Queensland will be a tough ask but it's something I've always wanted to do.''
Speaking at the launch of a PCYC mentoring program, run in conjunction with clothing manufacturer Lonsdale alongside fellow sports stars Paul Gallen, Dane Swan, Billy Dib, Lauryn Eagle and Candice Falzon, Carney said he was fitter than he had ever been.
"I'm a bit bigger and bit stronger than I have been before. I think I'm a bit better on the fitness side of things as well.
"I feel I can handle it (State of Origin) better. I'm going good at the moment - it's all positive.
"Origin has been a goal of mine since I was a kid, since I started playing at the Raiders. If I do get that opportunity, I want to stay there. I want to be an Origin player.''
In contrast to Queensland's seemingly-perfect Origin build-up thus far, NSW have been beset by injuries and in-fighting.
But Blues' skipper Gallen said those problems can be overcome.
"We aren't in crisis,'' Gallen said. "Those injuries will open up the way for other players to step up.
"We have to make the most of it.
"It's disappointing and a little frustrating but it's not something that can't be overcome.''
- AAP
'I think there’s a great opportunity on the South Island.'