Brisbane shouldn't pin their hopes on Kodi Nikorima to ignite the Broncos' misfiring attack, Wayne Bennett has warned.
Bennett will welcome back Nikorima from off-season shoulder surgery after confirming the Kiwi international would come off the bench in Thursday night's NRL round six clash with Sydney Roosters.
Nikorima's return could not come soon enough for a flat Brisbane attack that is ranked third-last in points (15.6 per game) and tries (2.4) scored this season.
Bennett admitted Nikorima would add some much needed scoring punch but baulked when asked if the utility was the man to spark the ailing Broncos (2-3 record).
"We'd like more points," Bennett said.
"But you can't think we will get more points because Kodi is there.
"But that's what he brings - a good attacking game.
"We've just got to be in a (attacking) position to use him."
Bennett said Nikorima finally had his confidence back after spending the last five weeks in Queensland Cup following his long off-season shoulder rehabilitation.
"I think it is time to bring him back," said Bennett, who replaced forward Jai Arrow on the bench with Nikorima.
"He was a regular first grader until he got injured (last year) but he's played a few weeks in the local competition and has the confidence to play at this level.
"It remains to be seen how we use him but he's there so we've got some options."
Bennett said he was no closer to solving their attacking woes against the third-placed Roosters despite Nikorima's return.
"We are just not finishing off what we start," he said.
"We are a bit off the pace a bit, we go into our shell a little bit, I am not sure why.
"We know what is going on. We are on top of it and are trying to sort it out."
Attack may be a concern but not defence.
Brisbane have the league's third-best defensive record, conceding just 75 points.
Not that Roosters coach Trent Robinson had to be reminded.
"Their (goal-line defence) has been very good," he said.
"Wayne has always had good defensive systems and he's instilled a lot of attitude into the way they defend - it's kept them in every game."
Meanwhile, Bennett is confident Jordan Kahu would play despite the winger missing training on Wednesday to be with his pregnant wife.
Their first child is due on Wednesday.
Ex-Gold Coast flyer David Mead is on standby.
Strike centre James Roberts (hamstring) has been cleared to play.
BRONCOS V ROOSTERS
* Brisbane have won the past three games against the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium.
* Brisbane have an overall 6-4 record against the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium.
* The teams have split their last 12 matches 6-6.
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