LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Penrith Panthers are facing more challenges despite their poor start to the NRL season, as they are now set to come up against a returning Tom Trbojevic earlier than expected.
After a fifth-straight loss, the Panthers are second-last on the ladder and are preparing to face the Roosters and Sea Eagles in their next two games.
The Roosters, who have already beaten Penrith once this season, are coming off a stunning win over the Broncos.
The news of Trbojevic's early return adds to the Panthers' woes, as Manly coach Anthony Seibold revealed that the star fullback is set to return in Round 8, rather than Round 10 as initially expected.
This revelation comes as Manly also anticipate the return of winger Jason Saab and hooker Lachlan Croker in the upcoming rounds.
Seibold highlighted the importance of these players, stating, "Saaby will play, all going well.
And hopefully Crokes as well.
If not Round 7 then Round 8.
And then Turbo will be back for Round 8 (against Penrith) as well.
They are a couple of important ones with the starting No.9 and fullback and Saaby as well." The Panthers would have been hoping to face the Sea Eagles without Trbojevic, who has a significant impact on Manly's performance.
However, they now must prepare to face a stronger Sea Eagles team with key players returning to action.
With these new challenges on the horizon, the Panthers must regroup and strategize to turn their season around despite the setbacks they are facing.