Cronulla prop Aaron Woods has been rated a better than 50-50 prospect of making his NRL return in Sunday's clash with former club Canterbury at ANZ Stadium.
Woods has been missing since early April because of a fractured foot but is on the verge of being cleared by Sharks medical staff.
He has been named on an extended bench in the No.21 jumper and the 28-year-old had several sessions with his teammates this week.
Coach John Morris said a final call on his availability would be made during Saturday's captain's run but was hopeful of him getting back on the park this week.
"Given that it's a lower body injury and the big fella isn't the lightest bloke in the world, he's putting 100-something kilos through it," Morris said.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"Being a foot fracture and having surgery you've really got to make sure you get it right.
"He's had about 12 weeks out so he's edging closer. He'll be keen to get out there and play one of his ex clubs."
Morris said they would take every precaution with Woods given the risk of reaggravating the problem but said the unavailability of Andrew Fifita due to suspension had increased their need to usher him back.
"I'd say he's slight better than 50-50," Morris said.
"He's looking okay and given we've got one big front-rower in Andrew Fifita who can't take the field, it does open up a little door.
"But we will definitely put his health first."
