LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Parramatta Eels have been hit with some bad news in their season, with star prop Junior Paulo facing a horror blow due to a foot injury.
The disappointment comes after a tough season for the Eels, leaving them firmly at the bottom of the NRL table with just nine rounds to go.
Interim coach Trent Barrett confirmed the unfortunate news, stating that Paulo's injury "wasn't looking good" following the team's recent loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
There was some hope that the former New South Wales State of Origin player would make a comeback this season, but scans have confirmed that surgery will be necessary.
While it's not a full Lisfranc injury, Paulo's joint problem in his foot will require a significant recovery time, likely ruling him out for the rest of the season.
The exact timeline for his return is still uncertain, but the focus for Parramatta now shifts to regrouping for the future.
Paulo, who had to leave the field early in the match against the Rabbitohs, will not be rushed back to action by the Eels.
With playoffs looking like a distant dream, the team is already looking ahead to the next season to make a stronger comeback on the field.