Sydney Roosters Mr Versatile Mitch Aubusson says he's ready and able to solve the NRL premiers' hooking crisis against the Warriors next Sunday.
The back-rower played for more than an hour in the dummy-half role in Saturday's win over Wests Tigers after Heath L'Estrange was forced out with a knee injury that's likely to rule him out for the rest of the season.
The former Manly rake was only in the side as a replacement for Jake Friend who is recovering from a hamstring problem that had been expected to sideline him for up to a month.
Roosters coach Trent Robinson said he would resist the temptation to rush back Friend to avoid the risk of a longer term injury and Aubusson is confident he could fill the void once again in Auckland if needed.
"It was something I have never done before so it was interesting but fortunately we scored a few tries and that made it easier for me," Aubusson said.
"I've filled in occasionally at hooker during games but that was the longest time I have spent there in the middle.
"I'd like Friendy to be back as quick as he can but we have to look after him as he plays big minutes.
"I'll back myself to play anywhere for this team and if it's 80 minutes in the middle then I'll do it. The guys helped me out a fair bit and I'll just let the halves and the outside backs do their thing."
Aubusson is the most unheralded member of a side littered with star names but his ability to play a number of positions makes him a valuable asset who's been a regular member of the team since 2007.
"I debuted at five-eighth which was interesting as I'd never played there before," he said.
"I think I have played every position in this team apart from the front-row.
"I've even played fullback. It's been an interesting couple of years but I've enjoyed the challenge."
The Roosters' 48-4 win over the Tigers at a rainswept Leichhardt Oval was a timely reminder to their rivals that they are still a force to be feared.
But Aubusson said the team are more than happy to let in-form ladder leaders South Sydney take the spotlight.
"Most of the media are telling us we are not where we were last year, but we are working hard to improve in-house," he said.
"Souths are unbelievable at the moment, they have a great side. Them and Manly are the benchmark.
"We don't listen to too much of what is being said but we'll look forward to playing them in the last round at home."
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