Manly coach Geoff Toovey has gotten some sorely needed good news, with hooker Jayden Hodges cleared of a serious injury to his neck.
Hodges was injured in Manly's 40-24 pummelling from South Sydney at Allianz Stadium on Friday, adding to a forgettable night for the finals specialists.
But Toovey still has a massive selection headache ahead of next weekend's semi-final, with Hodges still not sure to take the field.
"Jayden cleared of serious injury to neck and out of hospital, he's in good spirits but is still in discomfort and will be monitored throughout the next few days before we know if he's a chance," said a text message from the club.
Filling in for Matt Ballin (leg), with stand-in rake Jamie Buhrer (knee) also sidelined, Hodges caught Greg Inglis' hip with a nasty head bump in the fifth minute and didn't return after the break after being sent to hospital.
The injury adds to a horror injury toll for Manly, who also have Glenn Stewart (ankle) sidelined.
Toovey said Ballin was an unlikely starter for next week.
"He is a hope but they are long odds because of his injury," Toovey said.
When asked who could fill the dummy half role if Hodges can't play in the semi-final, Toovey answered: "Good question."
Ballin declined to talk when approached by reporters.
Peta Hiku, who filled in during the second half at hooker against Souths in Hodges' absence, could be one candidate to wear the No.9.
Manly will host at Allianz Stadium next week the winner of Sunday's elimination final between Melbourne and Canterbury.
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