Manly coach Trent Barrett has conceded the Sea Eagles could lose brilliant fullback Tom Trbojevic for the season and has pleaded for common sense around the type of tackle that saw him carried in pain from Suncorp Stadium.

The 20-year-old Blues Origin hope will have scans upon his return to Sydney on Sunday after landing heavily in his left leg in the 64th minute of the 24-14 defeat to the Broncos. He was dragged down by David Mead but the challenge was legal because the ball had already bounced.

It was initially thought to be a serious knee injury but was later revealed to involve both his knee and ankle, with Barrett saying the latter was the more pressing concern after initial exams from medical staff.

His departure was a turning point in the match, with Brisbane scoring through Corey Oates while Trbojevic was down being treated, while Kodi Nikorima crossed just two minutes later.