Injured Manly co-captain Jamie Lyon looks set to be fit for Friday’s NRL semi-final against North Queensland, delivering a huge boost for the reigning premiers ahead of the do-or-die clash.
Lyon suffered a calf strain in last week’s 16-10 qualifying final loss to the Canterbury Bulldogs but Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey said the star centre’s recovery was progressing better than expected.
“He had a run today, he’s obviously a bit sore but we’re pretty confident he’ll be OK for tomorrow’s training session and for Friday,” Toovey said after training on Wednesday.
“He’s improving every day and we’re quietly confident he’ll be OK for Friday.
“I think he surprised himself how well it’s recovering.”
The loss of Lyon would be a massive blow for Manly, who have a poor record without the inspirational centre, winning just 33.3 per cent of matches in his absence.
Toovey said even if Lyon hadn’t fully recovered by Friday he would likely still play him given the importance of the Allianz Stadium clash.
“Well it’s a do-or die,” Toovey said.
“It’s not a risk thing. He’s done the damage on it now, he can’t do anymore damage to it.
“So it’s just a matter of whether he can perform at a reasonable level so he can hopefully help us win the match.”
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