Brisbane’s backline injury woes have continued with winger Lachlan Maranta in doubt for Friday’s NRL clash with Parramatta.

Maranta picked up a groin injury in last weekend’s narrow 12-8 win over St George Illawarra and failed to finish training on Thursday.

Brisbane coach Wayne Bennett hasn’t ruled Maranta out of the Eels’ clash insisting the 24-year-old is “close to playing”.

The Broncos are already scrambling for backs with Jack Reed (shoulder), Jordan Kahu (pectoral) and Greg Eden (knee) all unavailable for Friday’s game.

“He hurt his groin in Sydney last week and it’s much better but he’s still not totally confident in it,” Bennett said.

“He’ll do a fitness test in the morning.”

Youngster Jonus Pearson will be added to the squad as an 18th man as cover for Maranta.

The 21-year-old was a star at under-20s level for the Broncos last year and will make his NRL debut if Maranta is ruled out.