Paul Gallen determined to play All Stars clash despite elbow infection landing him in hospital

PAUL Gallen says he plans to take part in next month's All Stars despite being hospitalised.

PAUL Gallen says he plans to take part in next month's All Stars despite being hospitalised.

The NSW State of Origin captain has spent the last three nights at a Sutherland Shire hospital after his elbow became infected by a bug that doctors are yet to identify.

Gallen, who was chosen at lock today for the NRL All Stars side, recently had surgery on the elbow following a training mishap, with his recovery progressing well until last weekend when it swelled to the size of a tennis ball.

The Cronulla star isn’t sure when he’ll be released from hospital, but is confident he’ll be fit for the February 9 clash with the Indigenous All Stars in Brisbane.

"The doctors have told me a bug has got into the elbow, but that I should be right in a few days," Gallen said.

"It’s been pretty painful and frustrating that I can’t be out there training with the boys.

"All Stars is still a few weeks away yet, I’m keen to be a part of it.

"It's a special week for the game so I’d be disappointed to miss it."