Former Test winger David Williams may be recalled to the Manly line-up for the first time since his suspension last year for betting on NRL matches, as the Sea Eagles battle an increasing injury toll.

While Manly coach Geoff Toovey is hopeful captain Jamie Lyon and fellow centre Steve Matai will be cleared to play in Saturday's match against Canberra at Lavington Oval, the Sea Eagles suffered a huge blow on Monday when it was revealed prop Brenton Lawrence requires back surgery that will sideline him until August.

He's back: The experience of David Williams could see him regain his Manly spot. Credit:James Brickwood

Manly officials believe the surgery will prolong Lawrence's career and ensure his quality of life is not affected beyond his playing days, but the news couldn't come at a worse time with fellow front-rower Josh Starling ruled out for a month after aggravating a knee problem in last Saturday night's 12-4 loss to St George Illawarra and back-rower Feleti Mateo also unlikely to make the trip to Albury due to an ankle injury.

Mateo was injured in an awkward tackle in the second half of the match against the Dragons and is awaiting the results of scans to learn the extent of the damage.