Slater named in Origin squad
Melbourne fullback Billy Slater, named in a preliminary Queensland State of Origin squad, could be only a fortnight away from signing a new deal with the Storm.
Slater is off contract at the end of the NRL season but is happy in Melbourne and keen to stay for a further three years - the same term as coach Craig Bellamy and friend Cameron Smith.
"I am pretty happy down here," Slater said by telephone.
"The coach has signed for three years. Everyone is really happy about that.
"Cameron Smith has signed. We get along pretty good. I am happy to stay here."
Slater came from the clouds last season under Bellamy and would have been crowned rookie of the year but for the cancellation of the prestigious Dally M awards.
And the 20-year-old hasn't shown any signs of second-year syndrome.
His form has been scintillating, earning a place in a 22-man Maroons squad named for this year's State of Origin series.
"It's been more a dream than a goal (to play for Queensland)," Slater said.
"Being a kid from Queensland, all you want to do is play for Queensland. It's obviously been a goal of mine."
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