El Masri on standby for Lyon

Bulldogs winger Hazem El Masri has been called into the NSW State of Origin squad as cover for Jamie Lyon, who continues to struggle with a hamstring injury.

Lyon has failed to train with the Blues all week after straining the leg muscle in Manly's loss to the Bulldogs last week. Blues officials claim a decision on Lyon's fitness will be made over the weekend, but it's believed the Manly centre will be released from the squad if he fails to complete tomorrow's training session.

El Masri's call-up has been a long time coming - the veteran winger on the fringe of Origin selection for several seasons without getting a game. If Lyon is ruled out, El Masri will go onto the wing with Matt King shifting to his preferred centre position.