Parramatta star Jarryd Hayne remains touch-and-go as to whether he’ll be fit to take on Brisbane in the opening round of the NRL season.

Hayne said his knee injury, which he suffered in Saturday night’s trial loss to Penrith, was on the improve but it was too early to say whether he’d be right to play on Friday week.

“It’s getting better, it’s as good as it can be,” Hayne said.

“I’m hopeful and faithful it will come good by next week.

“There’s nothing I can do but prepare myself and hope it comes good before round one.”

The loss of Hayne would be a massive blow for the Eels who are determined to make a promising start after a disastrous 2011 campaign.

Hayne combined well with new recruit Chris Sandow against the Panthers, but their combination could be put on hold due to the injury.