Brisbane forward David Fifita’s return is set to make playing NRL fun again for Broncos captain Patrick Carrigan.

Fifita will make his long-anticipated comeback from injury in Friday’s grudge match against Wayne Bennett’s South Sydney.

The last time the 20-year-old took to the field for the Broncos was the round-two win over the Rabbitohs at Suncorp Stadium way back in March.

Since then the Broncos season has imploded, slumping to nine defeats from their past 10 matches to leave them second-last on the ladder.

Carrigan, however, believes Fifita’s return is just the tonic the Broncos need before taking on their former coach Bennett.

“It brings a bit of fun back to the footy side of things when you get to run out with someone like that,” Carrigan said.

“He speaks for himself as a player. He can create something out of nothing, almost, on every run. He’ll bring a bit of X-factor and a bit of talk and competitiveness.

“He doesn’t like to get beaten so I’m really excited to have him back in and can’t wait.”

The Broncos will also welcome back prop Matt Lodge, with Carrigan confirming he’s recovered from a knee injury.

Brisbane head into Friday’s match with a new halves pairing for the third straight week with Anthony Milford (hamstring) sidelined.

Brodie Croft will start at five-eighth with Tom Dearden at halfback and Carrigan believes the 23-year-old will thrive in the role.

“Crofty’s strengths are probably his running game and playing what he sees,” Carrigan said.

“If Tommy can steer us around the park well on Friday night, it’ll just free Crofty up and take a bit of pressure off his shoulders and let the kid play footy.”