Gordon is set to play in Newcastle despite that potential transfer being finalised this week, as are Norman and halves partner Kieran Foran, but there could be a surprise late addition to the line-up after French joined the first-grade side for its captain's run at North Parramatta on Sunday.

The 20-year-old nephew of former St George Illawarra flyer Nathan Blacklock, considered a long-term replacement for Jarryd Hayne, is yet to play in the top grade despite making a name for himself with eight tries in the Eels' pre-season triumph in Auckland.

French's under-20s campaign has been interrupted by injury but his appearance at the captain's run heightened expectations he is close to a debut for the Eels, who will be without NSW Origin centre Michael Jennings on Monday night. Vai Toutai was listed at centre in place of Jennings when Parramatta named their team last Tuesday.

Facing a 12-point deduction Parramatta must win 12 from 13 games to reach the semi-finals and while the charging of Norman was just the latest chapter in a season of drama Arthur said he and Foran had enjoyed a solid week of training, with the captain unable to fly to Brisbane for a planned overnight rehab stay due to a shoulder complaint.

"Kieran has trained well and it also makes a difference when you've got your two halves spending some time together whereas in the last six weeks he's probably done two or three sessions with us," Arthur said.