Morgan had a stellar year in Thurston’s absence after the halfback was injured in Origin II and led the Cowboys to a grand final loss to the Storm.

The 25-year-old has made the Maroons utility spot his own for the past two years before filling in at centre in Queensland’s series deciding Origin game three win.

And Thurston reckons the bench is where Morgan is best suited despite acknowledging his Cowboys teammate had the skills to start for the Kangaroos.  

"He's been playing really good footy the last six to eight weeks and he's in the front running for it (starting spot)," Thurston, who will miss the World Cup after shoulder surgery said.

"But that would take away the utility role (Kangaroos coach) Mal (Meninga) likes to run with on the bench as well.

"He's got really good value to the team in that role."

Australia face England in the World Cup opener in Melbourne on October 27.