Manly will not rush Tom Trbojevic back from injury early despite the star fullback moving freely at training on Tuesday.
‘Turbo’ gave his injured hamstring a severe workout in a series of strenuous drills, with the normally media-shy Des Hasler happy to let the cameras in.
When vision of Trbojevic’s training drill emerged on social media, Manly fans hoped it signalled a miracle return ahead of the club’s season opener against Wests Tigers on Saturday night.
But Hasler will not be taking any risks with his top attacking weapon and will keep the brilliant No.1 on ice until he is 100 per cent fit.
MORE: Bulldog's Bite - My message for Gus Gould
Journeyman Brendan Elliot is set to take Trbojevic’s place against the Tigers at Leichhardt Oval.
“I’ve been training there (fullback) all pre-season so I will be right to go if picked,” Elliot said.
“They are massive shoes to fill – Tom’s a champion player – but I am confident of getting the job done.”
Vision to put a smile on the faces of @SeaEagles fans #turbo @sportingnewsau pic.twitter.com/9boRmpOvRr
— Adam Lucius (@Lush178) March 11, 2019