Haumono returns for Manly

Solomon Haumono will make his return to the National Rugby League on Saturday night after being named in Manly's squad for the trip to Townsville. Haumono was selected on a five-man bench by coach Peter Sharp for the game against the North Queensland Cowboys.

The Tongan international and Australian Super League forward last played in the NRL in 2000, for St George Illawarra, before turning to boxing. However, he linked with the Sea Eagles in the pre-season and impressed in trial games.

Steve Menzies returns to captain Manly after missing the trials with a fractured eye socket while halfback Jason Ferris' return from a rib cartilage injury has forced Luke Dorn to the bench.

Ben Walker has been retained at five-eighth. Either Dorn or Luke Williamson is likely to drop off the bench.