St George Illawarra prop Paul Vaughan has been rated a 50-50 chance of making a surprise return from an ankle injury for this Sunday’s NRL clash with Canterbury.

After missing the last two weeks, Vaughan had his first training session back with teammates in Wollongong on Tuesday and could make a timely return as the Dragons seek to build a head of steam before the finals.

He wasn’t expected back until the following week against Newcastle, but fellow forward Tyson Frizell said he was touch-and-go to take on the Dogs at Jubilee Oval.

“He got through today, I think he’s a 50-50,” Frizell said.

“He did most of the training session today.

“It’ll be up to the staff whether he’ll be right or have one more week. He’ll definitely be back next week.”

The NSW Origin front-rower suffered a syndesmosis injury against the Warriors in round 21 and was expected to spend three games on the sidelines.

Vaughan looked strong during an opposed session on Tuesday and didn’t shy away from contact as he defended in the middle.

He looked unhindered during training but did have a noticeable limp as he left the field after the session.

Frizell said he had not suffered a recurrence, noting he wouldn’t have finished the session if that was the case.

“He seems alright,” Frizell said.

“It’s the first time he’s had a proper training session and it’s probably a bit sore. It wasn’t serious or he wouldn’t have finished.”

Frizell said Vaughan had been sorely missed in the middle of the field and would be a welcome addition as they look to continue their momentum gained from last weekend’s win over the Wests Tigers.

“He’s been a big loss for us, especially through the middle, everyone knows how damaging he is with the ball and adds a bit of punch through the middle,” Frizell said.

“He does a lot of work for us throughout the game and we’ll be itching for him to get back in the game.”