Returning Canterbury star Jamal Idris is desperate to pay back his team-mates when the Bulldogs do battle with NRL rivals the Wests Tigers on Friday night.

Stood down for last Sunday's embarrassing home loss to Cronulla after missing training, Idris says he's ready for a big game at Campbelltown Stadium to help get the struggling Dogs' season back on track.

"At the end of the day I let them (teammates) down so this week is more for them," he told reporters on Thursday.

"I missed a game (playing) with the boys so I think that's my punishment there, so hopefully I can just make it up to them this week."

Idris missed a flight home after spending the Bulldogs' bye weekend off on the Gold Coast, where he will play his football with the Titans from next season.

But, as the debate over mid-season signings rages, Idris says his decision in April to join Gold Coast on a five-year deal had no influence on his off-field hiccup.

"It's not about where you're going the year after, it's about what you're doing this year and what you're doing next week or this week," he said.

"These are my mates. At the end of the day I'm going to go out and play as hard as I can for them."

Reports have suggested Idris' attitude is part of the reason he has been overlooked by NSW coach Ricky Stuart for this year's State of Origin series despite playing for Australia in May.

The 20-year-old will join hooker Michael Ennis (infected ear) and halfback Trent Hodkinson (suspension) in returning for the clash with the Tigers.

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