EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Reveals Laurie Daley Shocked by Tom Trbojevic’s Fitness in Round 10 Display as Origin Selection Looms

Phil Gould has suggested that Tom Trbojevic’s performance in Round 10 has left NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley somewhat unsettled, as the conversation around his potential selection for Origin I intensifies.

Dylan Edwards is poised to take on the fullback role for the Blues, while Trbojevic finds himself vying for a position in either the centres or on the wing.

Stephen Crichton and Latrell Mitchell appear to be the leading candidates for the centre positions, putting Trbojevic in contention with Brian To’o, Jacob Kiraz, and Zac Lomax.

Earlier this season, Trbojevic was sidelined for three matches due to a knee injury sustained against the Eels in Round 4.

He made his return in Round 8 against the Panthers, but analysts have pointed out that he has yet to regain his peak fitness.

Despite racking up 206 metres during his team’s recent defeat to the Sharks, many observers believe he didn’t perform to his usual standards.

According to Gould, this performance may cost him a spot on the Origin team.

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“I think his weekend performance has thrown the coach off a bit,” he remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus.

“Laurie probably had him lined up to play on the wing, which I disagree with; Tom should not be playing on the wing.”

“Some might argue he’s a great player who can perform anywhere. That may be true, but the wing position is critical at this level, especially if you aren’t delivering consistent performances.”

“I would prefer to see a specialist in that position, and there are certainly plenty of capable options around.”

“Tom’s physical condition this past weekend certainly startled the coach. It’s clear he would need to deliver something remarkable this week to instil confidence in the coach to select him that way. I’m confident Laurie Daley initially viewed him as a potential winger.”

Trbojevic, along with Ryan Papenhuyzen and James Tedesco, is also being discussed as options for the fullback position.

Gould suggested that it’s a case of unfortunate timing for Papenhuyzen and Tedesco, as they are restricted to just the one position.

The ex-Blues coach believes that if Lomax can prove his fitness, he will likely earn a spot alongside To’o.

Manly is set to face the Cowboys in Townsville on Saturday night.