Sam Burgess says he is a 50-50 chance of taking the field for the Rabbitohs against Newcastle in Cairns on Sunday.

Burgess came from the field with a shoulder injury against Canberra on Monday and has been named in coach Michael Maguire’s side to take on the Knights.

Burgess, who has signed to play English rugby union next year, initially feared his NRL career was over but says his injury has improved in recent days.

“I’m not definite, I’ve got a few tests later,” he said on Thursday.

“I’ve not trained yet … we’ll see how it goes. If I’m not right, I won’t play.”