Dugan’s No.1 move could be fleeting

Josh Dugan’s return to the St George Illawarra fullback role could last just one week.

The NSW No.1 will be reacquainted with the Dragons’ custodian role in Sunday’s round-three NRL clash against South Sydney at the SCG.

However Dugan, who is confident of overcoming a hamstring injury in time, concedes his move back to fullback has only come about due to an injury to Kurt Mann.

“Mary (coach Paul McGregor) wanted me to move back to fullback but that was because of Kurt’s ankle,” Dugan said on Thursday.

“I will play wherever is best for the team and with Kurt out the best place for me is fullback.

“I am comfortable there, I know my role there and I am looking forward to going back there.”

Dugan had been moved into the frontline by McGregor for the Dragons’ season-opening losses to Melbourne and Cronulla.

Mann has struggled at fullback and McGregor admitted after the thumping by the Sharks on Sunday he was second guessing taking Dugan out of the No.1 jersey.

Dugan has previously welcomed the switch to centre and indicated he could return there.

“I have trained at centre all of the off season so we will just have to see how he goes,” he said.

Dugan defended Mann’s poor form.

“Our backline has been null and void over the last two weeks because of our completion rate,” he said.

Dugan expected his hamstring to recover in time to play the undefeated Rabbitohs.

“It is only a little strain,” he said.

“They were concerned I could do more damage if I stayed out there.

“I will have a fitness test today and train and will be right to play.”

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