State of Origin: Tigers fullback James Tedesco says he doesn’t feel he’s ready for Origin in 2015

WHEN Tigers coach Jason Taylor was asked about James Tedesco being ready for Origin in round two, he thought it might be too soon.

James Tedesco during City Origin side training at McDonald's Park, Wagga Wagga ahead of the City v Country game on sunday. pic Mark Evans

WHEN Wests Tigers coach Jason Taylor was asked about James Tedesco being ready for Origin after his starring role against the Dragons in round two, he thought it might be too soon.

On Friday, Taylor maintained this year’s series would arrive too early, with 2016 and beyond more likely.

Believe it or not, Tedesco agrees.

Even though he’ll run out for City on Sunday, albeit on the wing, Tedesco’s top priority is to get through a full season with the Tigers, rather than worry about challenging for the NSW No. 1 jumper.

James Tedesco makes a run during City Origin training. Picture Gregg Porteous

All Tedesco wants is to avoid injury.

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After all, he smashed his kneecap in half last year _ an injury often associated with road accidents, not footballers _ and spent nearly eight months in a race to be fit for the start of this NRL season.

Tedesco was hardly fazed when he initially missed out on City selection, only to get the nod late Sunday after South Sydney’s Dylan Walker was ruled out through injury.

“I was out watching the NSW Cup, then I went for a feed with a few of the boys afterwards, and I knew (Matt) Moylan was going to be fullback (for City), so I thought I’d get the chance to enjoy the week off and give the body a rest,’’ Tedesco said.

“I wasn’t looking for anything representative-wise this year.

“All I want is a good solid year, then to have a go at it (rep footy) next year.

“If I’m playing good footy and the Blues’ opportunity comes up, I’ll take it with both hands.

“But for me, it’s about getting my confidence back. The more games I play and stay out there, it all helps with building that confidence.’’

Tedesco has racked up eight tries in eight games for the Tigers, and been particularly impressive his last two outings. He’s scored more than double the amount of tries than any rival fullback.

Tedesco and fellow speedster James Roberts are sure to light up the right side of the field for City.

Moylan and Josh Dugan are the two favourites vying for the Blues’ No. 1 jumper vacated by superstar Jarryd Hayne.

You sense it will take injury or suspension to both of them for Tedesco to come into calculations.

Taylor said of his fullback: “It would be a great step for Teddy if he could get through the year and come out the other side after the bad run he’s had.

James Tedesco in action for the Tigers. pic Mark Evans

“His form has been good enough, but I think you’ve got to earn those (Origin) positions. Even though Moylan is also a young guy, he played a full season last year, he won games for Penrith right through the year and played in a finals series ... some of those other guys have a bit more experience than Teddy at this point in time. But in 12 months time, I’d like to think he’ll be definitely in the mix.’’

Originally published as State of Origin: Tigers fullback James Tedesco says he doesn’t feel he’s ready for Origin in 2015