Knights hope Cronk plays on in 2018

Newcastle coach Nathan Brown expects his club to benefit if departing Melbourne superstar Cooper Cronk opts to play on in the NRL in 2018.

But it doesn't necessarily mean he believes the superstar will land at the Knights.

Brown has spoken with Cronk about the potential of shifting to Newcastle in 2018, as he aims to move closer to his partner in Sydney.

However the Knights coach is realistic about the chances of the Queensland and Kangaroos playmaker moving to Newcastle, given the 168km drive that separates the two cities.

Cronk is also yet to decide if he will play on next season, or whether he will end his career in Melbourne colours this year.

If he does play on, Brown is excited about the moves it could force in the player market as the cashed-up club looks to recruit a far more competitive squad for 2018.

"It can have a good effect for us anyway because no-one has any money in Sydney so it will force a bit of movement," Brown said.

"So Cooper playing in Sydney would be great for us anyway."

The Knights could desperately do with Cronk's leadership and guidance in the halves.

They have a young squad full of potential, but Brown told fans the loss of the likes of Jarrod Mullen had hurt their development.

"I spoke to (Cronk) and he sees what we are trying to do here," Brown said.

"He acknowledges that we are starting from a long way back in the youth and he feels he could contribute.

"But Cooper Cronk and the Knights have got two big problems. One: Will he play? And two: Newcastle's not Sydney."

Brown also suggested the club's current halfback, Brock Lamb would return to first grade soon after being dropped for Trent Hodkinson last weekend.

"It's a bit of an ongoing thing but I'm sure Brock will be back in the short term," Brown said.

"Whilst he's improving a lot, we thought a game back in reserve grade would be good for him.

"He's got one or two small things to work on."