Newcastle have been dealt a huge blow with fears boom youngster Sione Mata'utia could miss up to 10 weeks of the NRL season after damaging his ankle in the Auckland Nines.
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It is thought the utility back suffered a syndesmosis injury in the Knights' third pool game of the tournament against Manly on Sunday. A hobbling Mata'utia was placed in a moon boot on the team's return journey to Newcastle on Monday. He will have scans to confirm the extent of the damage, but the worst-case scenario could see him sidelined for the opening 10 rounds.
It comes at a cruel time for the 18-year-old, who burst onto the scene last year. After playing just seven games, he became the Kangaroos' youngest Test player when he made his debut against England in the Four Nations playing on the wing. He was expected to take his place on the wing for the Knights for their opening-round clash against the Warriors.
The injury could also keep Mata'utia from retaining his place in the Test squad with the Kangaroos to play their only match of the season against the Kiwis on May 1.
While the injury is a blow to the Knights' chances, they have a host of backline depth. Dane Gagai and Joel Leulia will feature in the centres while skipper Kurt Gidley will return to fullback.
NSW winger James McManus is locked in a battle with former Test player Akuila Uate, speedster Jake Memo plus Mata'utia's brothers Chanel and Pat for two wing spots. Teammate Carlos Tuimavave also hurt his ankle at the Nines but is expected to be eligible for round-one selection.
Parramatta were hardest hit by injuries, with Kaysa Pritchard (pectoral) facing an extended stint on the sideline. Teammates Chris Sandow (ankle), Ken Edwards (knee) and Brad Takairangi (ankle) returned to Sydney to have scans on Monday while Cronulla youngster half Fa'amanu Brown's season is over after he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in Cronulla's semi-final win.
