PAUL Gallen is set to step out of representative retirement after being approached by the NSWRL to play in next week’s City-Country Origin fixture.

The former NSW State of Origin and current Cronulla captain was asked by City Origin coach Brad Fittler last week if he would consider being chosen for the Mudgee clash to be held on May 7.

This year’s City-Country Origin will be the last instalment of the annual representative fixture.

The NSWRL want Gallen to be chosen in the City Origin team to act as a mentor for the next-generation players while the call-up would also be an opportunity for the premiership-winner to give back to the game.

media_camera Brad Fittler has asked Paul Gallen to represent City. Picture: Gregg Porteous

A Wentorthville Mapies junior, the 35-year-old made his City Origin debut under coach Tim Sheens in 2006, before becoming a mainstay with the NSW Blues and Australia.

Gallen has long credited his maiden representative jersey with City as a pivotal stepping stone to his lengthy career.

“I feel honoured to be stepping out of retirement to captain the City side in the last ever Country v City match,” Gallen told NSWRL.

“This fixture allows players on the cusp of an Origin call up the chance to perform on the big stage and push their claim for a spot in Laurie Daley’s NSW side.

“Having lost my only game for City, I’d love to lead the side to victory. There will be a number of potential Origin candidates who I hope to pass on my experience and knowledge to.”

Gallen’s inclusion follows the decision by Des Hasler to ban his players from appearing in the match, much to the disappointment of Josh Jackson.