Cowboys prop Matt Scott named in squad for NRL preliminary final clash with Roosters

COWBOYS prop Matt Scott could make an incredible comeback against the Roosters after being named in a 21-man squad for Saturday night’s grand final qualifier.

Matt Scott. Photo: Evan Morgan

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COWBOYS prop Matt Scott could make an incredible comeback in North Queensland’s preliminary final against the Roosters.

Scott has been named in a 21-man squad for Saturday night’s grand final qualifier at Allianz Stadium.

The Maroons and Test prop has been sidelined since round 2 after rupturing his ACL in North Queensland’s derby win against the Broncos.

Matt Scott during the Round 2 against the Broncos. Photo: AAP

Scott, 32, was expected to miss the entire season, however he has made a quicker than expected recovery from his knee reconstruction.

Cowboys coach Paul Green said it was unlikely Scott would play but named him in the squad in case a teammate is injured throughout the week.

“If everyone gets through the week, he won’t play,” he said.

“He’s worked really hard through the year since his injury to put himself in the frame.

“He wanted me to name him. Given he’s one of our captains and worked as hard as he has, I at least owe him that.

“As long as everyone gets through training, I don’t expect anything to change.”

Scott underwent surgery just six months ago and knee reconstructions can take up to 12 months to recover from.

The Cowboys were not banking on Scott returning this year, however he has had a faultless rehabilitation to put himself in the frame.

Matt Scott. Photo: Evan Morgan

“He’s been training now for some time,” Green said.

“He’s ticked all the boxes he’s had to. He has worked really hard and done everything he has had to.

“There are guys that have played AFL and league earlier than that.

“It’s not out of the realms of possibility that he plays (but) I’m not intending to play him this week as long as everyone gets through.”

Cowboys forwards Coen Hess (knee) and John Asiata (hand) have been carrying injuries but are expected to face the Roosters.

Winger Antonio Winterstein (ribs) is in some doubt with Javid Bowen on standby.