Experienced forward Jamie Buhrer knows the nib Newcastle Knights will have their work cut out for them this Saturday against the Brisbane Broncos at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Despite having been without spine players Darius Boyd and Anthony Milford as well as outside backs Corey Oates and David Mead, they have still won two from their last four matches.
On top of that, Ben Hunt, Matt Gillett and Josh McGuire will be returning from Origin this week.
“They are still a quality team and it will be good if players don’t back-up,” commented Buhrer.
“I would be lying if I said I wasn’t happy to be facing them at this time, but I think Brisbane has shown they’ve got depth this year.
“They won’t be any easier to face, so we’ll be doing our due diligence on all those that have been brought in and if the blokes in Queensland back-up then we’ll be ready.”
The Knights forward maintains while there’s been a question mark over whether Milford will play, the Knights will be ready regardless.
“I would say if they have named him, he will probably play,” said Buhrer.
“That will be a week or two early from his shoulder injury so you’d like to think he won’t be 100 per cent.
“If he plays, we’re going to have to work our backsides off and look to contain him, and we’ll certainly be running at him.
“They are a quality opposition, well positioned around that top four."
Meanwhile the 28-year-old, who has been starting on the bench, said it’s been great to be back on the field.
“I am comfortable with my place within the team,” Buhrer confirmed.
“Having that extended time off, just getting my wind, I have felt pretty good.
“Obviously, the results haven’t been there but aside from that, I’m quite happy with where I’m at physically.”
He's also pleased to be named as co-captain alongside Sione Mata’utia.
“To be recognised as co-captain of the Club is something that I am very proud of,” smiled Buhrer.
“It is a privilege that not too many people get.
“It certainly doesn’t change what I’ll be doing on or off the field but it’s something that I am very proud of.”
Three grades are in action this Saturday at McDonald Jones Stadium. Gates open at 1pm, NRL kick off is at 5.30pm.
