Manly star Tom Trbojevic has been cleared to return in a massive boost for the winless Sea Eagles as they look to kick-start their season against the Warriors on Saturday.
After missing the opening two rounds of the NRL season with a hamstring strain, Trbojevic has been declared a certainty by coach Des Hasler to take on the Warriors in Christchurch.
"Tom's had a really good recovery and rehab and we've been really impressed with what he's done and it's been very thorough. And it needed to be," Hasler said.
"He's excited."
After their 0-2 start, the return of the NSW and Australian outside back could be just what Hasler's side need to get back on track.
Hasler predicted Trbojevic's comeback would have a palpable impact on his side as they look to rebound after losses to the Wests Tigers and Sydney Roosters.
"You only have to look at his pedigree," Hasler said.
"He's an Origin player; he's an Australian player - he brings a lot of confidence to those around him.
"That's probably one attribute that doesn't get mentioned enough."
The Sea Eagles are preparing to meet an inspired Warriors in Christchurch just two weeks after the mosque terrorist attacks where 50 people were killed.
The club has organised a series of community appearances in an effort to reach out to locals, including junior league clinics and charity events.
Hasler said they had worked closely with the Warriors and local council to engage with the community.
"What we've done is reach out and find out how the clubs could help," Hasler said.
"We thought by gravitating to the community and just letting them know they are not alone, and the people are thinking about them and what they've had to endure, and tie in with what Prime Minister (Jacinda Ardern) with her message of they are us. And that's true.
"In our short time we are there we will reach out as much as we can."
