Minichiello won't be rushed back

Sydney Roosters coach Ricky Stuart says he won't rush injured fullback Anthony Minichiello back into the NRL in a bid to help save the club's struggling season.

Stuart says Minichiello, who is believed to be close to re-signing with the Roosters, is still several weeks away from returning after undergoing back surgery on May 9 to repair a herniated disc.

Stuart is confident though that the Test fullback will be back in action before the end of the season. Minichiello has not played since the Roosters' round six loss to Brisbane, the 2002 premiers winning only two of eight games in his absence.