Incumbent NSW fullback Anthony Minichiello is still hopeful of retaining his spot for this year’s State of Origin series despite missing a chance to push his claims in City-Country.

Minichiello was not selected to play in City’s 24-22 win over Country in Mudgee on Sunday but said Sydney Roosters medical staff had spoken to City officials about a hip flexor problem he picked up in last week’s 50-12 NRL loss to North Queensland in Darwin.

While Minichiello did a solid job when called up for the second and third games of last year’s Origin series to replace the injured Josh Dugan, he appears to be struggling to get a look-in this season.

The likes of Canberra star Dugan and Manly’s Brett Stewart are hoping to return from injury in time for the series while St George Illawarra’s Brett Morris and Parramatta’s Jarryd Hayne are also leading contenders.

But Minichiello, 31, hasn’t given hope of another call-up.

“I’d definitely love to be there again,” Minichiello said on Monday, ahead of the Roosters’ ANZAC Day clash with the Dragons on Wednesday.

“I think last year we all put some great steps in place in our belief system that we can win a series.

“Obviously the selection part of it is out of our control so I’ll just do my best for the Roosters and see what happens from there.”

Asked whether he hoped Stuart showed loyalty to the players from last year’s series, Minichiello said: “I’m not going to come out and make any comments, I’m just going to play well for the Roosters and see what happens.”

Minichiello attempted to hose down rumours arising on Sydney radio on Monday morning linking him with a move to the Wests Tigers next season.

The veteran is off-contract at the end of 2012 but said he had not been in talks with the club.

“I’ve got to catch up with my manager the next couple of weeks but I haven’t spoken to the Tigers at all,” he said.

Minichiello said the ANZAC Day match was his favourite fixture of the season and backed the Roosters to prove their worth as a top eight side.

“I always look at the calendar and see what day we’re playing,” Minichiello said.

“It’s obviously a special day for Australians… and it’s a special day to play on.”