EXCLUSIVE: The Reason Behind Andrew Johns’ Decision to Leave Dylan Edwards Out of His Origin Squad

NRL icon Andrew Johns has clarified his choice to select Tom Trbojevic over Dylan Edwards for the NSW Blues as anticipation builds ahead of Origin I.

Blues coach Laurie Daley faces a tough decision with the Manly star making his fitness comeback while Edwards, the current holder, has enjoyed a successful history in series wins.

Regardless, Johns has made his selection and firmly supports Trbojevic ahead of the seasoned premiership player.

“Turbo hasn’t played fullback for NSW yet,” he remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Freddy & The Eighth.

“When I asked Billy Slater on the Sunday Footy Show, he said, ‘If fully fit, there’s no one better than Trbojevic’.

“He’s got to be fully fit, 100%, but I believe he could run riot.”

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James Tedesco’s current form also puts him in the running for the fullback role.

If Daley opts for Edwards or Tedesco, Johns mentioned he would shift Trbojevic to centre, replacing Stephen Crichton.

The Knights legend noted that the other centre position is a contest between Bradman Best and Latrell Mitchell, while Brian To’o and Zac Lomax are expected to take the wing spots.

Johns predicted that if Jarome Luai is selected over Mitchell Moses at five-eighth, then Edwards would be a sure bet.

“This would mean a very Penrith style of play,” he commented.

“It would involve a methodical approach. Last year, particularly in game two, NSW’s strength lay in exploiting edges with Latrell and Angus (Crichton) on the left; they couldn’t stop them, leading to 34 points before half-time.

“Utilising those strike players will be crucial for (Cleary) and Luai or (Cleary) and Moses.”

Former Blues coach Brad Fittler supported Edwards in maintaining his position but is keen to see more from him in the upcoming Panthers matches.

“He must deliver a standout performance,” he remarked.

“Teddy has been phenomenal.”