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Blake Ferguson is intent on keeping a low-profile in Perth as he prepares to make an unlikely return to State of Origin football.
Blake Ferguson will draw inspiration from Josh Morris when he makes his unlikely State of Origin return for NSW on Sunday.
Ferguson's Blues recall has gone under the radar over the opening days of camp as the state comes to grips with Latrell Mitchell's shock dumping.
But given the controversy surrounding his last appearance for NSW, Ferguson is content with keeping a low-profile in Perth.
The Parramatta star was delivered the news by coach Brad Fittler on his way home following the Eels' win over Brisbane on Saturday night.
"I was really happy, and then it was straight into needing to do a job. That's the thought process," Ferguson told AAP on Monday.
"Enjoy the good news, but now I have a job to do on Sunday to beat Queensland."
Ferguson's Origin career appeared over after it emerged following the 2017 series loss that he went on a drinking session with Josh Dugan days before the decider.
He was overlooked for last year's series under Fittler, and then skipped a pre-season camp earlier this season.
The 29-year-old admitted thinking he was unsure if he'd wear sky blue again.
"Obviously you get doubt, but this is a prime example of not giving up on something," Ferguson said.
"Like J-Moz, he retired from rep footy and you see him play in game one. He's one of my good mates. Even he was like, 'I thought I was done'."
Ferguson remains arguably the best winger in the game, having helped the Sydney Roosters to a premiership last year.
It came after vowing to go on a self-imposed alcohol ban during the season.
And he's carried that promise into his first season with the Eels, where his 2,213 metres in total this year is fourth in the NRL.
Ferguson admits being annoyed when questioned over his drinking habits, and is instead remains focused on keeping the series alive for NSW.
"It sort of pisses me off because I'd already made the commitment before you guys even talk about this stuff," he said.
"I already made the commitment from last year. This is not about me drinking or anything. This is about NSW.
"I made a commitment to myself on the 28th (of December, 2017), regardless of what you guys say. It starts getting annoying when I keep getting asked the same questions when everyone knows about me not drinking."
