Josh Addo-Carr has opened up on his all-meat diet that he believes has transformed him as a person and made him a more accountable teammate, as he hopes to be considered for Blues Origin selection.
While the winger has been a regular for NSW, most pundits are expecting him to miss out on the team that will be selected next Monday for Origin I.
But Addo-Carr is not focused on the doubters, instead turning to a carnivore diet that he says helped get his career back on track, particularly when his attitude also landed under the microscope.
How his newfound diet came about was simple, according to the 28-year-old.
“I really thought about what my ancestors used to eat, that’s how it (came) up,” Addo-Carr said on Monday.
“Strictly meat, I just tried it and transformed my body into the way I wanted it.
“It helped me perform and train the best I could. Really helped my sleep as well. No nightmares.”
While the diet seems to be paying off for the Bulldogs, it’s another jumper that he’s keen to pull on in the coming weeks that means even more.
Addo-Carr has been so desperate to retain his Blues spot from last year, that he has taken the extra steps off field to remind the selectors of his ability and keenness.
He’s been in touch with new Blues coach Michael Maguire.
“Spoke to Madge (Maguire) a couple of weeks ago, just a general chat, just things I can improve on and keep doing,” he said.
And the hunger to pull on that jersey once again is stronger than ever.
“Of course (I have that desire). I love putting that jersey on. I’m representing my family, I’m representing my community and representing the people of NSW,” he said.
The Origin I team will be announced on Monday, before the match on June 5 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium.