Burton 'more mature' and ready for an Origin return

Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton has declared his evolution as a player has him ready to return to the State of Origin fold. 

The playmaker produced a sublime final State of Origin audition on Thursday night as he led Canterbury to a thumping 44-12 victory over the Dragons.

Burton is in the frame for selection in the halves, at centre or as the bench utility and declared he's willing to play any position if it means playing for NSW for the first time since 2022. 

"Having that experience in the past helps," Burton said. "I feel like I'm more mature now, I feel like I'm definitely ready. 

"I'll be happy to play anywhere. That versatility helps but I'm just hoping I get that call."

While Burton is likely to be named when NSW coach Michael Maguire announces his team on Monday, where exactly he is picked could depend on the health of other players around him. 

NSW have seen a number of halves and centres go down with injury in recent weeks, making Maguire's task even tougher. 

Halfback Nathan Cleary will miss at least the opening two games, while Mitchell Moses hasn't played since Round 3 and calf niggles hang over Nicho Hynes and Cody Walker.

The centres have also been decimated, with Tom Trbojevic and Bradman Best picking up hamstring injuries. Kotoni Staggs fractured a rib last weekend and Latrell Mitchell has only recently returned from suspension. 

Bulldogs skipper Stephen Crichton is likely to fill one position, but the other centre spot remains open. 

While Burton is willing to play anywhere, Canterbury coach Cameron Ciraldo hopes he gets an opportunity in the halves.

"He's going a lot better but the sky's the limit for him," Ciraldo said. "If he puts it all together, it's not going to be a debate if he's in that team. 

"He's done a fair bit the last couple of weeks and put himself in the frame for that team. If he gets picked, it's an opportunity I'm sure he'll grab with both hands."

Burton endured a testing 2023 season with the Bulldogs but has steadily worked his way into the 2024 campaign amid an improved Canterbury side. 

The turnaround comes on the back of a number of tough conversations with Ciraldo, who challenged Burton to elevate his game.

The impact of those chats is now on display on the field and the youngster is determined to continue building, whether with the Blues or the Bulldogs. 

"[Ciraldo] just talks about little effort areas," Burton said. "What I can do to inspire the team, putting them in the corner, chasing the little defensive efforts. 

"Running the ball, that's when I'm at my best, if I can keep doing that, I'll be good."