Injury news

Australian Test centre Justin Hodges says he's fit and ready to play for Brisbane against Manly in Sunday's clash at Suncorp Stadium.

Hodges has missed recent games with a hamstring injury but says his leg feels great and he could have played last week against Cronulla if required. Hodges's return is a big boost for Brisbane, who are missing skipper Darren Lockyer and Brent Tate for the rest of the season and still waiting on Test fullback Karmichael Hunt's return from injury.

A number of Brisbane stars, including stand-in captain Petero Civoniceva and Brad Thorn have been given the day off training and played tennis while Tonie Carroll worked on the bike and is hopeful of playing against the Sea Eagles.

Meanwhile, Manly coach Des Hasler says his centre Steve Matai remains a week to week prospect with his injured neck and is in doubt to play the Premiers. Matai left the field during the second-placed Eagles' weekend win over Parramatta, raising concerns his neck injury could force him out for the rest of the season. Hasler says the club will nurse him through the remainder of the season, along with utility Travis Burns whose back injury may prevent him from playing again this year.