Queensland legend Cameron Smith has revealed just how close Melbourne Storm teammate Billy Slater came to retirement after shoulder injuries almost forced the legendary custodian to quit the game.

Now Slater will return on Wednesday night to the Origin arena.

“His shoulder was in a pretty ordinary shape,” Smith said.

“I don’t know if he has let on just how bad it was, it was pretty close to not giving him the opportunity to play again.

“And even before he got through rehab he watched his club side make a grand final – I know it was hard for him.

“So for him to put in the amount of work he has put in, the hours of rehabilitation, it’s really remarkable.

“I think he just wanted one more opportunity to go around and play again and he has certainly made the most of that.”

Maroons icon Wally Lewis has also hinted that Coach Kevin Walters may throw some positional curve balls at the Blues which may include using Slater in a roving role.