Manly fullback Brett Stewart has been ruled out of this weekend’s clash with Newcastle, but is expected back from a hamstring injury for the round 20 NRL blockbuster against Des Hasler and Canterbury.
Stewart suffered a minor hamstring strain in Sunday’s big win over Parramatta.
The Sea Eagles are hopeful Stewart will return for the grudge match against fellow premiership contenders the Bulldogs, who are coached by ex-Manly boss Hasler.
Versatile back Dean Whare is expected to come into the side to play the Knights at fullback, given he’s filled in well at No.1 already this season.
Manly have been cursed by injury problems all year, with Stewart’s brother Glenn already sidelined with a knee problem.
The defending premiers are nicely poised for a back-to-back assault if they can get their stars all on the park at once.
They racked up seven tries and 40 points in just 46 minutes of their 40-24 romp of the Eels at Brookvale Oval on Saturday.
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