Brisbane centre Roberts fails fitness test

Brisbane centre James Roberts has failed to overcome an ankle injury ahead of the NRL clash with Manly at Suncorp Stadium.

Brisbane centre James Roberts has failed to prove his fitness for Saturday night's NRL clash with Manly at Suncorp Stadium.

Named 18th man, Roberts continues to battle an ankle injury and his absence will ensure young forward George Fai will make his NRL debut off the Broncos bench.

"He was very close but he will play next week," coach Wayne Bennett said of Roberts.