The "awkward" situation NSW are in after Tedesco's return

Queensland State of Origin legend Cameron Smith believes James Tedesco returning to the Blues side would be an “awkward” situation despite the New South Wales camp saying he’s fitted in seamlessly.

Tedesco was overlooked in favour of Penrith Panthers star Dylan Edwards, who was later ruled out with a quad strain, opening the door for the Roosters skipper and former Blues captain to claim back his No.1 jersey.

Smith said Tedesco’s return would feel awkward.

“I don’t know if he’d be embarrassed, it would be awkward wouldn’t it, when you’re walking back into camp knowing you’re no longer the first choice fullback and he was the captain,” he said on Breakfast SENQ.

“So if you put yourself in his shoes, it’s got to be a tad awkward coming back into that footy side.

“But at the same time, he’s been given a second chance, he’s been given an opportunity to go back in there and wear the blue jersey and represent his state.

“I got no doubt he’ll go out there and play well, he’s been in great form it’s just that Dylan Edwards was playing slightly better and playing more consistent football in the eyes of Madge Maguire.”

Smith also said adding to the awkwardness would be if the Blues were to win the series opener with Tedesco at fullback.

“I look at it from a point of view, well they’ve said one to two weeks for Dylan Edwards, I don’t think he’ll play a game before Origin II,” he said.

“Now what happens if the Blues win this first one and Tedesco plays a strong game, does Edwards come back in? You have to keep Tedesco.

“This is the very awkward situation they find themselves in.”

NSW host Origin I at Accor Stadium tomorrow night.