Parramatta skipper Nathan Hindmarsh insists the Eels can cope without Jarryd Hayne should the injured fullback lose his race to be fit for the opening round of the NRL season.
Hayne remains a touch and go prospect of lining up against Brisbane on Friday week as he continues his recovery from a knee injury suffered in Saturday night’s trial against Penrith.
The Test and NSW Origin star had dispensed with the crutches as he joined Hindmarsh in taking part in a series of school visits in the Parramatta area on Tuesday, but still appeared hampered in his movement.
Hindmarsh admitted taking on the Broncos without Hayne would make their task tougher, but with the likes of Chris Sandow, Willie Tonga and Luke Burt still around, believed the Eels still had enough firepower to get their season off to a bright start.
“Haynesy’s a big part of the team and if he does happen to miss round one, it’s a big loss,” Hindmarsh said.
“We’re hoping (he plays), but I think we’re prepared for him not to come back … we’ve got a great replacement in Luke Burt.”
Hayne said the knee was progressing as expected, but wouldn’t risk doing further damage just to make it to round one.
He admitted to being relieved that the injury was only minor cartilage damage, after initially thinking he had suffered ligament damage which would have put his season at risk.
“Walking off the field I wasn’t too confident,” Hayne said.
“It was only in the sheds when they checked all the main ligaments to see if they were intact, and they were, (that I knew it wasn’t too bad).
“I always knew that it was going to be a race to get back for round one.
“It is a long season. I’m sure if I’m not around 90-95 per cent that (I won’t play). It’s going to be a close call.”