Brisbane have delayed a decision on whether goalkicking lock Corey Parker will return from a shoulder injury in Friday night’s NRL clash with Melbourne at Suncorp Stadium.

Parker trained again on Thursday but did not take part in the contact session.

Coach Anthony Griffin said provided the 30-year-old pulled up without any problems on Friday morning he would play against the Storm.

Brisbane will need Parker’s defensive workload in the middle to help stop Melbourne who have returned to form following a five-game slump.

The Broncos desperately need to end their own losing streak following defeats in their past four starts which have them fighting to remain in the battle for a top eight position with games against Manly and Penrith to come.

Brisbane made some progress against the all conquering Canterbury Bulldogs last weekend leading 14-0 midway through the first half before going down 22-14.