Mitchell Pearce responds to Origin speculation after MOM performance

Mitchell Pearce has given a humble response to questions over the possibility of the Knights' playmaker making a return to the Origin arena, after yet another man-of-the-match performance in Newcastle's 38-12 over the Sydney Roosters.

In registering their fifth straight win, the Knights ended a six-match losing streak against the Roosters stretching back to 2014, much to the delight of their loyal fans.

And Pearce was pivotal in securing the win continuing his rich vein of form over the last six weeks and propelling himself into the conversation for a playmaking role for the Blues, especially after Luke Keary was helped off the field with a concussion early in the match.

Keary was being strongly considered to make his debut for the Blues this series but it's widely expected that he'll be selected at five-eighth, with Nathan Cleary and Adam Reynolds thought to be the leading contenders to be picked at halfback.

Pearce played like a man on a mission and it was clear he wanted to show his former team what they had been missing out on.

The halfback was told he was free to explore his options at the end of 2017 when the Roosters brought in Cooper Cronk to lead the side which eventuated in a premiership.

Yet Pearce got a bit of revenge on the tri-colours when he scored under the posts and as the Knights took a 22-6 halftime lead.

Speaking on Nine's Friday Night Knock-Off Pearce denied his actions were a deliberate dig at his former team, saying he was proud to be playing for the Knights.

“You always want to prove yourself but I am a little bit older now and I couldn’t be happier in my life up here, I love my teammates that’s what I am playing for,” Pearce said.

“I love the place and wanted to show thanks to the fans and the town that has given me plenty of love.”

The Newcastle halfback was then asked if he felt like he still had something to offer at Origin level, with Blues coach Brad Fittler standing close by on the panel.

"Nathan Cleary did a great job last year. I've been in that position. I'm a big fan of Nathan I really hope they stick with Nathan for Game 1," Pearce said.

The 30-year-old former Rooster has played in seven Origin series without winning one.

He has been in arguably career-best form, coming into Friday night's game with 12 Dally M points in four weeks.