What’s the Buzz: Blake Ferguson breaks silence on Parramatta Eels axing

Brad Fittler considered him before settling on Brian To’o for the Origin opener. Then two days later came some crushing news from the Eels. It’s been quite a week for Blake Ferguson.

Eels flyer Blake Ferguson. Picture: Brett Costello/NRL Photos

Blake Ferguson went awfully close to making the NSW State of Origin team. Instead he got sacked from the Parramatta Eels’ NRL side.

It’s been a crushing week that would deflate most footy players, but not the flamboyant 31-year-old who is off contract and playing for his future over the next 12 weeks.

Eels coach Brad Arthur offered him the weekend off to get his head right. No way.

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Instead, Ferguson will drive to Newcastle on Sunday to play reserve grade against the Newcastle Knights.

“I told Brad I didn’t want to be sitting around doing nothing,” Ferguson said. “I don’t care that it’s reserve grade because there’s a few areas I want, and need, to work on.

Blake Ferguson has vowed to fight his way back to first grade. Picture: Brett Costello/NRL Photos

“Obviously I’d prefer to be playing NRL, but I accept what’s happened and I’ll just have to work harder to get my spot back. It’s as simple as that.”

Blues insiders have revealed how close Ferguson was to making his 10th appearance in a NSW jersey. He lost a photo finish to Penrith Panthers pocket rocket Brian To’o.

With his contract up at Parramatta at the end of the season, Ferguson is desperate to reclaim his first grade spot to show Arthur and rival clubs he is worthy of a new deal.

At least two rival clubs have approached his agent Sam Ayoub with enquiries.

“Sam’s actually told me not to talk about my contract situation,” Ferguson said.

“He just wants me to concentrate on my footy and everything will take care of itself. That’s what I’m going to do every week — wherever I’m picked.

“I honestly feel as pumped and as hungry as I’ve ever been.”

Originally published as What’s the Buzz: Blake Ferguson breaks silence on Parramatta Eels axing