Chiefs prop Ben Tameifuna is not giving up hope of a recall to the All Blacks.
The 22-year-old was last part of the All Blacks' set-up in June 2012 but never took the field.
Despite some strong performances for the Chiefs again this year in Super Rugby, Tameifuna has missed out on selection in the training squad for June's three-Test series against England.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says the front-rower's fitness remains an issue.
"Obviously, I'm still working on my fitness and it's up to them whether they pick me or not," Tameifuna said.
"I'll just keep doing what I'm doing until the opportunity comes to be in there."
Playing for Tonga remains a possibility but the burly prop, also linked with a move to French club Toulouse, says his dream is still to play for the All Blacks.
"I'm just going to give it time. I'll still be knocking on the door for the end-of-year (tour) and, if they need a call-up for the June window or anything, I would take it with both hands," he said.
"Right now, I'm just focusing on Super Rugby and getting the Chiefs the three-peat and trying to get back in the All Blacks' squad when I can. The dream is still open. I'll keep pushing for that."
Tameifuna, who has played in every game for the Chiefs so far, was renowned for his bullocking runs and try-scoring feats in last year's run to the Chiefs' second title.
This year, the tighthead prop has swapped try-scoring for ruck clearing and tackling.
"It's really something that I've worked at," he said.
"I've been focusing so hard on trying to get fit and hitting rucks and tackling that the tryline hasn't been a factor for me. Nailing my core role is one of the main things I want to look after this year."
His focus will remain on those core responsibilities against the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday, where he's likely to be packing down against All Black Ben Franks in a match that is critical to both teams' playoff aspirations.
The Chiefs are just one point clear at the top of the New Zealand conference, while the Hurricanes' top six hopes will effectively end if they lose at Westpac Stadium.
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