Bennett praises “remarkable” Parker

Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett has hailed tough-as-nails co-captain Corey Parker, who will face Manly on Saturday night despite a monster bruise on his right arm.

Parker’s right bicep has been heavily bandaged since he copped a nasty knee flush on his arm from hulking Gold Coast forward Ryan James in last week’s win over the Titans.

But the veteran back-rower has fought through the pain barrier and has been given the green light to take on the Sea Eagles – a “remarkable” effort in the eyes of Bennett, who is always a tough man to impress.

“It’s a great example for young players,” Bennett told reporters after Brisbane’s final training session at Red Hill.

“If you saw the bruise on his arm, which went from the top of his shoulder to his elbow, and how painful it must be and sore it was… and he hasn’t missed a training session or asked for any leniency.

“He’s pretty tough.”

Parker’s clearance paves the way for a shot at history at Brookvale Oval, provided he has an accurate night in front of goal.

The 33-year-old needs just eight more points to surpass Darren Lockyer and become the Broncos’ leading all-time pointscorer.

Meanwhile, there is doubt over the fitness of Brisbane’s other co-captain Justin Hodges, who could be a late withdrawal.

Hodges failed to complete Friday’s session after suffering a minor injury to his meniscus, with Dale Copley to be brought down to Sydney as back-up.

“No-one thinks it’s too serious, the knee just locked up for a moment. We’re pretty optimistic he’ll play,” Bennett said.

“It’s just a bit of an irritation. If he can’t play tomorrow, he’ll definitely play next week.”

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