Roosters co-captain Jake Friend travelled with the squad to Brisbane and is set to make his return from a shoulder injury. The hooker was due back in round 10. The Broncos will again be without Justin Hodges (hamstring), Jordan Kahu (hamstring) and Adam Blair (cork).

Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan has refused to confirm what sort of role Ben Barba will play as he makes his return from a two-game ban against the Knights on Friday night. Barba has been named on an extended bench, with Jack Bird expected to keep the No.6 jersey. Knights coach Rick Stone is yet to finalise his 17 but utility Tyler Randell is likely to be the player omitted from the five-man bench if there are no late injury concerns.

Nearing a return: Roosters hooker Jake Friend. Credit:Getty Images

Reece Robinson is expected to beat an ongoing calf complaint to play for the Eels against the Titans. Gold Coast skipper Nate Myles will play despite a badly corked thigh.