HE'S been lauded as one of the game's most improved players and a possible Origin bolter, but Penrith star Liam Martin admits he doubted whether he was up to the NRL before his superb breakout season.
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The 23-year-old Temora product has all the tools to excel in the big time - toughness, strong defence, a good hole runner, versatility and subtle skills - but he said self confidence has been the biggest difference in 2020.
Martin has cemented a spot as Penrith's right back-rower during a remarkable 16-game winning streak which has booked them a preliminary final spot against either South Sydney or Parramatta next weekend.
His combination with star halfback Nathan Cleary has been lethal, prompting calls for the 'Temora Terrier' to be handed his first NSW Blues jersey after just two seasons and 35 NRL games.
Even the man himself is blown away by his progress over the last 12 months.
"Absolutely, it's hard to tell myself that it even was a possibility," Martin said.
"I've got no idea what's going to happen in the next few weeks but to even be in discussions about it (Origin), it's pretty incredible.
"I certainly wasn't expecting to be in this position this year. I was more than happy to play a utility role or wherever.
"I was lucky Ivan showed belief in me and that helps me with my confidence in games, I'm really happy with how the year's unfolded.
"Last year I didn't know if I was up to the standard. I was playing with guys I've looked up to and it was quite nerve wracking, but this year has certainly been a lot better.
"Last year I was going out there thinking 'I hope I don't make an error' and now I feel I can make a difference for the team."
Martin said the young Panthers have learned plenty from their qualifying final win over the Roosters, where they held on 29-28 after leading 28-10 at one stage.
"With the occasion we were a bit scrappy with some of our discipline aspects," Martin said.
"I think it was nerves and we need to be a lot better in the coming weeks.
"The nerves were quite high as a lot of us hadn't played finals. I know myself I was quite anxious, and didn't know what to expect."
Martin says playing finals, and hopefully a grand final, would help him be battle ready for Origin should he get the call from NSW coach Brad Fitter and join fellow Temora product Zac Lomax in the squad.
"Playing finals will certainly help in that capacity. Getting the games under my belt I would feel a lot more comfortable if I do get the call-up, but I'll see what happens."
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