Manly fullback Tom Trbojevic on track to return from hamstring injury in round 5

In a big win for frustrated Manly fans, star fullback Tom Trbojevic’s return from a hamstring injury is just around the corner.

Manly coach Des Hasler has confirmed star fullback Tom Trbojevic is on track to return from his hamstring injury in round 5 against the New Zealand Warriors.

Trbojevic hasn’t played this season after slipping in the bathroom and hurting his hamstring.

There was conjecture the injury was caused following a sprint race with a fan in the Manly Corso, but the Sea Eagles No.1 has repeatedly denied those claims.

Regardless, Manly has struggled without Trbojevic in the first two rounds, losing twice and conceding 72 points.

Star fullback Tom Trbojevic looks set to return from his hamstring injury in round 5 against the New Zealand Warriors. Picture: Matt King/Getty Images

It comes as the Blues flyer only played seven games in 2020 after injuring his hamstring in June before a shoulder injury in round 19 ended his year, including the 2020 State of Origin series.

But in a positive sign for Sea Eagles supporters, the man nicknamed “Turbo” has resumed running as he plots another comeback from injury.

Hasler is confident Trbojevic could line up for Manly against the Warriors on the Central Coast on Friday, April 9.

“It will be the week after – it won’t be next week,” Hasler said when asked about Trbojevic’s return date.

In the meantime, Hasler will persist with Dylan Walker at fullback for the Sea Eagles despite his recent struggles.

Walker hasn’t looked comfortable in the No.1 jumper and has produced several mistakes, but he has the backing of his coach.

“He (Dylan) wasn’t the only fullback that dropped a ball last week,” he said.

“He is a complete footballer, and he is doing a great job back there.”

Manly coach Des Hasler is wary of St George Illawarra captain Ben Hunt. Picture: Evan Morgan

Hasler is focused on Friday’s clash against St George Illawarra in Wollongong – a venue the Sea Eagles haven’t won at since 2003.

He is particularly wary of inform Dragons captain and halfback Ben Hunt.

“Ben is a quality player,” he said.

“He is an Origin player, and he looks settled, so he is dangerous.

“You just have to be really aware of his strengths, but you can just see the air of confidence that he has.

“But I also think the momentum they are gaining off their forward pack is what we have to nullify.”

Originally published as Manly fullback Tom Trbojevic on track to return from hamstring injury in round 5