Cameron Ciraldo has opted not to speculate on Bronson Xerri's future with Canterbury, even after noticing a significant change in Xerri's mindset leading up to his return to the NRL.
With Stephen Crichton sidelined due to an AC joint injury, Xerri, aged 25, is set to step in as left centre against the undefeated Penrith this Thursday night.
Ciraldo will have more information regarding Crichton's recovery by next week, though he anticipates that the experienced player will be ready for the State of Origin series opener on May 27.
"I think he'll be ready for that," stated the Bulldogs coach.
"He got a scan, there's nothing broken there, but the injury's got to heal. He's healing pretty well so far."
Previously, Ciraldo expressed his frustration with media speculation suggesting Xerri was dissatisfied with his predicament at the Bulldogs, shortly after learning he would be moved to the NSW Cup for round two.