South Sydney have defended their handling of Kyle Turner’s concussion, saying he’s under strict medical supervision and will not play unless passed fit.

Turner was knocked out against Penrith on Sunday when he made his return to the NRL from neck surgery but he has been named on the bench for Friday’s clash with Manly.

The 23-year-old back-rower has a history of neck and head injuries and former Newcastle forward Alex McKinnon, who was left a quadriplegic after suffering a devastating neck injury in a tackle, has urged him to consider retirement.

Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire said on Wednesday Turner was receiving the best possible medical advice and he was no certainty to play this week, with a decision to be made on his fitness on Thursday.