After missing just three weeks due to a broken hand, tough-as-teak Sydney Roosters co-captain Jake Friend is poised for an early return this weekend.
Friend has been named on an extended bench for Sunday's clash with Manly as the second-placed Roosters look to turn the tables on the Sea Eagles, who pipped them in round five.
The 27-year-old hooker's return could be timely with rookie No.9 Victor Radley - who has stood in for Friend over the last two games - under a cloud with a hand injury.
It would be a remarkable turnaround given he suffered the injury, which required surgery, at training just three weeks ago.
The Roosters will again be without co-captain Boyd Cordner, who is struggling with a knee injury he picked up in game one of the State of Origin series.
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Elsewhere, Ben Hunt has been named to replace injured Brisbane hooker Andrew McCullough despite having not started at No.9 for seven seasons.
Kodi Nikorima will return from a hip problem to wear Hunt's No.7 jersey with back-rower Sam Thaiday expected to fill in at dummy-half at some point against the Gold Coast.
Broncos winger Corey Oates (infection) has been included on an extended bench after missing the last five weeks.
Melbourne have lost Cameron Munster to an ankle injury, however that is offset by the return of fullback Billy Slater.
Ryley Jacks will deputise for Munster at five-eighth.
Penrith's Matt Moylan and Dean Whare are possibilities to face the Wests Tigers on Sunday after being named as 18th and 19th men respectively.
Brett Morris, Sam Kasiano and Adam Elliott all return for Canterbury for their match with Parramatta on Thursday night.
Canberra welcome the return of key duo Josh Papalii and Jordan Rapana from suspension.
