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Returning from two severe shoulder injuries that kept him out of the game for a majority of the last two years, Billy Slater is quickly returning to his legendary form and is back in contention for a Maroons jersey. 

The Queensland fullback spot will come down to Slater and current holder Darrius Boyd. However, Slater insists he only wants Queensland to be successful rather than promote his own selection. 

"He's (Boyd) a good mate and a teammate - it's not a rivalry between Darius and myself, It's what's best for Queensland," Slater said. 

"I've played a lot of football with Darius and he's a fantastic fullback and he's probably playing the best that he's played in his whole career. He's a great asset to Queensland so wherever we are it will be what's best for Queensland and the selectors and coach will come up with that.

"I'm a Queenslander. I haven't played for Queensland for a couple of years and I'd love the opportunity to get back in that arena. It's obviously going to be a very strong side but there's still a couple of rounds of footy to go and hopefully I can continue playing good football. If I do get that opportunity I will make the most of it."

Making his comeback in Round 3, the 33-year-old has been instrumental in the Melbourne Storm's NRL ascendency atop the ladder, four points clear of their nearest rival. While Slater's quick rekindling of form was unexpected for some, he believes he can still improve.

"I wasn't surprised with how I'm playing, I probably expected myself to be playing better to be honest," Slater said. "I'm always really confident in what I can do and what I can bring to the team.

"My shoulder is going really well. It was disappointing not to play in the [Anzac] Test last week but I think that week off has certainly been good for me. I've enjoyed that weekend off and got my body in a really good position."
 

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