LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a huge development for the State of Origin, Phil Gould has responded to rumors of a walkout amid the dramas engulfing the Bulldogs.
The former Blues coach has said that he would answer Brad Fittler's call for next year's series if it came to it.
This comes as Fittler faced pressure and speculation about his future as the Blues coach after losing two series in a row to rival coach Billy Slater.
Fittler's controversial selections in this year's State of Origin contributed to the Blues' 2-1 loss, with defeats in the first two games.
Despite this, the Blues board is expected to offer Fittler a 12-month extension on his contract for another shot at redemption.
However, there could be significant changes in the coaching staff, with Greg Alexander announcing his departure as Fittler's chief adviser.
Alexander had been Fittler's right-hand man since 2018.
Additionally, McGregor, who served as an assistant to Fittler this season, has revealed that he will not return to the Origin set-up in 2024 due to other commitments.
The Blues desperately want to turn the tide of poor form next year, and Gould has expressed his willingness to help Fittler if called upon.
He praised Fittler's willingness to cooperate in the past, stating, "When it comes to Brad Fittler, he has never asked me for much ...
anything I've ever asked him to do, he has always said yes."
It is worth noting that Gould is currently the head of football at the Bulldogs, but he remains open to the possibility of returning to the Origin arena.
He concluded, "We will worry about Origin if he asks."