LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Manly Sea Eagles have endured a challenging pre-season, and their Round 1 chances now hang in the balance as second-rower Josh Schuster may not be able to line up against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Las Vegas.
Schuster, who is looking to bounce back from disappointing form and a string of injuries over the past two years, has made the switch back to the forward pack for this pivotal year.
However, his pre-season has been plagued with setbacks.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Schuster hasn't been able to train with his teammates for almost eight weeks.
The troubles began when he contracted chickenpox before the Christmas break, which forced him out of training.
Upon returning, he suffered a spiral fracture in his finger within the first training session, leading to surgery.
With his fitness and match readiness in question, it remains to be seen if Schuster will be able to take the field in Round 1.
The Sea Eagles will be relying on their new signing, Luke Brooks, to step up and partner Daly Cherry-Evans in the halves as they aim to start their season on a strong note.