Hindmarsh to make call over Eels start

Parramatta coach Michael Hagan will leave Nathan Hindmarsh to make the final decision on whether he plays against Newcastle on Friday night following the death of the Test backrower's father.

Hindmarsh was absent from the Eels' final training session while spending time with family in Robertson in NSW's Southern Highlands.

But the 28-year-old has vowed to play in the NRL match at Parramatta Stadium.

Hagan said if Hindmarsh changed his mind, the players and club would understand and support the decision.

"Initially he's said he'll play, but having been through that myself it does take a bit to sort out and come game day he'll go through a whole range of emotions," Hagan said.

"If he's fit and wants to play, I'm happy for him to play, but if he doesn't feel that he can, we understand that too."

Hindmarsh missed the Eels' loss to the New Zealand Warriors last Sunday with a virus.

Bill Hindmarsh passed away early Wednesday after a battle with cancer.