Final in doubt as Jake Friend floored by infection
Sydney Roosters co-captain Jake Friend could miss NRL finals action after coach Trent Robinson confirmed the star hooker suffered an infection similar to Sam Burgess’ recent issue.
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Sydney Roosters co-captain Jake Friend has been struck down with the same post-surgery infection that recently floored South Sydney star Sam Burgess.
The experienced hooker was originally aiming to return to football against arch-rivals South Sydney in the final round of the competition but the comeback has been delayed until possibly as late as the second week of the finals.
Friend had a plate inserted to repair a broken bone in his forearm in July but returned to hospital for further surgery last week to clean up the infection. He is now on antibiotics.
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Roosters coach Trent Robinson admitted on Monday night there was uncertainty around his return.
“It’s very much like Sam Burgess’ situation,” Robinson said, “He had a plate put in where the break was and an infection has set in. He’s on heavy antibiotics.
“He definitely won’t play against Souths. It’s a setback and the doctors will keep an eye on it.
“The plan is week one of the finals but it might be week two.”
The 29-year-old Friend has been restricted to just five games in 2019.
In his absence, rookie dummy-half Sam Verills has been outstanding but Friend’s experience in finals football is invaluable around this time of the year.
Robinson says he has no concerns about Friend’s lack of match fitness and rushing him back to play in the finals.
“If you‘re going to back anyone you’d back a 200-gamer like Jake,” he said.
“Sam’s been very, very good for us but Jake will be ready with a bit of luck.”
Originally published as Final in doubt as Jake Friend floored by infection
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