Friday’s blockbuster NRL clash at Accor Stadium was already lacking a bit of star power, and has just taken another hit.
Roosters centre Joey Manu was named in the team on Tuesday but has been withdrawn as he battles to overcome a hamstring injury.
The Kiwi international suffered the injury last week while filling in at fullback against the Wests Tigers, afer a concussion to captain James Tedesco.
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Tedesco was named in the side to play the Rabbitohs this week and at this stage hasn’t been withdrawn.
But Manu’s absence follows that of Bunnies fullback Latrell Mitchell and Chooks enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, who will both be missing due to suspension.
It was two years ago when Mitchell controversially crashed into Manu with his shoulder, ending both players’ seasons in one tackle with an illegal shot that shattered the latter’s cheekbone.
Fans are promised on-field fireworks every time the two proud Sydney clubs meet and there is plenty at stake on Friday aside from the usual bragging rights.
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South Sydney currently holds eighth spot on the ladder, but the Bunnies are equal on competition points with th Roosters and Cowboys, who sit behind on for-and-against.
Both teams essentially have to win Friday’s game to have a chance of qualifying for finals.
Manu will be replaced at centre by Corey Allan.