Ferguson can be in Origin mix: Daley NSW coach Laurie Daley says he'll consider controversial Blake Ferguson for the Blues' State of Origin defence next year if he's back and playing well. Ferguson began pre-season with the Sydney Roosters last week after being cleared to train by the NRL following 18 months out of rugby league for a series of alcohol-related behavioural issues. While he is yet to receive the green light to resume playing, the 24-year-old has undergone counselling as part of an NRL-approved rehabilitation program since being found guilty of indecent assault in June. Daley said provided Ferguson is cleared to resume and can return to the form which saw him selected for the Blues in 2013, he would "most definitely" be considered for next year's series against Queensland. "It will depend on how (Ferguson) is going," Daley told AAP. The guys did a terrific job this year, so the guys that weren't a part of that squad need to be playing well to apply pressure. But anyone playing in the NRL and playing well, you don't discount them. You just have to make sure they're playing well and the right fit for your team. Daley also confirmed he intended to retain Paul Gallen as captain, despite calls for him to lose the leadership following his ASADA ban and fine for a Twitter tirade directed at NRL officials. "If Paul Gallen is fit, he will captain NSW next year," Daley told News Corp. The Blues will have at least one vacancy in their backline next series after fullback Jarryd Hayne's decision to pursue an NFL career in America. Daley, speaking at the launch of a $5 million sport grants program backed by Holden, said Matt Moylan, Josh Dugan and Brett Stewart were the early frontrunners to inherit the Blues' No.1 jersey. Dugan started last season at fullback but shifted to the centres, where he earned a NSW berth. Moylan proved a match-winner in Penrith's fairytale run to the NRL semi-finals and earned a call up to the Australian Four Nations squad. While he did not receive a maiden Test jersey during the tournament, Daley said he was in the running for a Blues spot. Young Matty Moylan played really well this year and got an opportunity with Australia. Even though we didn't see him, he'll be better for that experience," Daley said. Josh Dugan will be there and Brett Stewart as well. So we've got a number of options.