Controversial NSW fullback Josh Dugan breaks his silence ahead of State of Origin II

CONTROVERSIAL NSW fullback Josh Dugan has finally broken his silence to declare he is ready to repay the debt he owes to Blues coach Laurie Daley.

CONTROVERSIAL NSW fullback Josh Dugan has finally broken his silence to declare he is ready to repay the debt he owes to Blues coach Laurie Daley.

In a massive State of Origin gamble, Daley opted for Dugan when Origin I fullback Jarryd Hayne was ruled out by a hamstring injury.

The decision appeared to immediately backfire when Dugan was caught drinking with teammate Blake Ferguson the day before the camp started.

But in an interview with The Daily Telegraph, Dugan has denied that he has a drinking problem.

Ferguson was later arrested for indecent assault and kicked out of the team, while Dugan retained his place.

MUNDINE REACHES OUT TO HELP FERGUSON

Dugan hasn't spoken to the media about his return to a NSW jumper - until now.

"Loz has been great,'' Dugan said of Daley.

"The boys in camp are very tight and much of that has to do with Laurie and his staff making us feel so welcome.

"He showed faith in me and I just want to get out there and do my best for him and the boys.

"I really feel honoured to be in the team.

"Pulling on that blue jersey again will be one of the highlights of my career.''

Dugan was reluctant to answer questions about his off-field behaviour but did respond to two questions from The Daily Telegraph.

Q: Do you regret being out with Blake Ferguson on Sunday night?

A: I don't really have anything to say about that.

Q: You have a drinking problem?

A: No.

Dugan stressed Origin wasn't his focus when sacked by Canberra earlier this season for numerous off-field indiscretions.

"To be honest, Origin was the furthest thing from my mind,'' Dugan said.

"I just wanted to get my career back on track and the Dragons have enabled me to do that.

"Playing that (Origin) game in 2011 was one of the highlights of my career.

"I'm over the moon about having the opportunity to play again in such a crucial Origin game.

"On a personal level, much of the credit needs to go to teammates and my family. They have shown faith and belief in me and I'm feeling comfortable with my football again.''

Daley stressed last night Dugan wouldn't be intimidated by the occasion at Suncorp Stadium.

FERGUSON CHARGED WITH INDECENT ASSAULT

"Josh has brought plenty of enthusiasm into camp,'' Daley said.

"He is enjoying being around the boys. ``He has been here before so that is an advantage.

"Josh won't be overawed.

"He played well the last time he was in Origin and we expect the same this time.''

Asked whether Dugan had been difficult to handle, Daley said:  "No, he's been terrific.

"The guy knows how to get the best out of himself.''