Stewart return may have to wait
22/02/2011 2:25 PM
Adam Lucius
Sportal
He has not played a game for 345 days since suffering the second of two major knee injuries - and now Brett Stewart may be made to wait a little longer to make his much-anticipated return to rugby league.
The brilliant Manly full-back has been named in a 24-man squad to meet the Warriors in a trial on Saturday in New Zealand on Saturday night but still needs a final clearance from cautious coach Des Hasler.
Stewart has not played since his knee buckled under him in the first match of the 2010 season.
But 12 months of painful rehabilitation later and a draining court case which saw him acquitted of sexual assault charges, the former Test and NSW Origin custodian is set for an emotional return - if Hasler signs the release papers.
Stewart failed to train on Tuesday, adding to the mystery.
"He's been named but he's got some medical tests and fitness tests later this week and we'll see how he comes up," Hasler said.
"It's in the hand of our medical team."
"It's a programmed way about achieving an end."
"It's not hit and miss. It's been carefully worked and carefully planned with the medical and rehab (staff) and with his introduction back into NRL football."
"Go to the airport on Friday and if he's there, well, he's not a tourist is he."
Regardless of whether Stewart plays on Saturday night or not, Hasler has no doubt the 25-year-old will return to the peak of his powers this season.
He likens Stewart's return to the debut of a star new signing.
"At the time (of his injury) he was probably the best full-back in the game," the Sea Eagles boss said.
"He has all the attributes a side needs ... the energy he brings, the confidence that he brings."
"There is some stuff you have you are born with. He's a consummate professional, he knows what he's got to do."
"He's in good shape."
Manly hooker Matt Ballin added: "Brett's been training well and progressively getting better."
"His speed looks good and he's confident."
"It's great for us to have him back. He brings that speed to us and plays so naturally that it's hard to read what he does."
"He's an amazing talent and brings that x-factor to our team."
Jamie Lyon (ankle) and Joe Galuvao (calf) are both unlikely to play in Saturday's trial while suspended duo Steve Matai and Glenn Stewart will sit the match out.
http://www.sportal.com.au/league-news-display/stewart-return-on-ice-112689
