Brisbane have played down talk that prized recruit Jack Bird might make his club debut in Friday night’s NRL clash with the Wests Tigers.
The NSW State of Origin star trained strongly on Tuesday ahead of the Broncos’ team announcement for their round-three match after overcoming a shoulder injury.
Broncos high performance manager Jeremy Hickmans admitted they were “pushing” Bird to play this week, after centre Jordan Kahu broke his jaw in their stirring last-round win over North Queensland.
But back-rower Matt Gillett didn’t sound convinced Bird would feature this week in Broncos’ colours.
“He is keen to get back (but) I think he has a little way to go yet before he returns,” Gillett said.
Broncos halfback Kodi Nikorima said as far as he knew, Tom Opacic would fill the centre vacancy after playing strongly when he replaced Kahu in the first half against the Cowboys.
“He (Bird) is looking pretty good but he hasn’t been cleared yet so, obviously, Tom will step up in that role (against Tigers),” he said.
“But if he does, I am excited for Birdy. He’s been training well and brings a lot of energy.
“I am happy to have him back this week. If not, it will be next week.”
Nikorima revealed Blues game breaker Bird had been anxious in the off-season about coming up to Maroons territory.
“He was a bit nervous when I spoke to him about coming to a Queensland club, being a NSW player,” he said.
“But we have welcomed him with open arms. I think he is going to enjoy his footy here.”
Speculation has been rife that Bird will run out against the Tigers after Hickmans had given the strongest indication yet that he would make his Broncos debut this week.
“He’s a chance this week,” he told foxsports.com.au.
“If Jordan Kahu hadn’t broken his jaw, we wouldn’t be pushing him.
“He has to see the surgeon and tick a couple of boxes.”