As the Newcastle Knights approach their Round 11 match against the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Stadium, coach Nathan Brown has provided an update on movement within the team.
In terms of injuries following Sunday's game, Brown is doubtful Jacob Saifiti will be cleared after injuring his wrist.
“It may not be as bad as first thought, but I wouldn’t have thought it was a good result either,” he said.
Meanwhile halfback Trent Hodkinson is pushing for fitness ahead of Saturday’s match after carrying a knee injury.
“Trent did a rehab run yesterday and as they expected it was a lot better,” he said.
“I would have thought with what he did yesterday things would work out favourably and that he would play.
“He will train tomorrow with the team to see how that goes but things are looking positive."
He described Nathan Ross’s hamstring complaint as minor with the outside back expected to pass a fitness test this week.
With injury concerns with both the team’s experienced halves, Brown is content with the cover young Brock Lamb and Jack Cogger can provide in the interim.
“I thought they did really well and both showed they have a great long-term future in the game,” he said about the pair.
“They have a good natural skillset and know how to play in their positions.
“They are very direct in the way they play their footy in attack and both like to compete.
“I think as far as halves go, the long-term future of the Club is in a good position.”
Brown also fielded questions regarding speculation the Club was interested in the possibility of Jarryd Hayne making a return to the NRL.
“I think there’s a lot of clubs who would want to talk to Jarryd Hayne’s management,” he said.
“As it stands at the minute I think Gids (CEO Matt Gidley) would probably say we probably wouldn’t have the finances or budget to go down that path, but things change in rugby league.
“I’m not sure what Jarryd Hayne is doing himself as far as the NRL goes but as it stands at the moment, any time there is a really good marquee player on the market, I think as a club that’s looking to progress as a club, it’s someone you should always look at.”
