Brisbane veteran Alex Glenn hopes Matt Gillett returns from a back injury sooner rather than later after admitting David Fifita was “found out” defensively on their right edge in their NRL clash with Melbourne.

But Glenn doubts whether it will be this week after Gillett again trained away from the Broncos main group on Tuesday.

Gillett was expected to launch his comeback in Thursday’s away clash with North Queensland – his first NRL game since round 15.

However, Glenn admitted Gillett was at long odds.

“I don’t think so. The fact that he didn’t train (with the main group) today I don’t think we are likely to see him but hopefully next week,” he said.

Gillett’s return can’t come soon enough after Brisbane sorely missed his experience in last round’s 40-4 thumping at the hands of the Storm.

“He’s been a big loss for our right edge. You saw what happened to that edge against the Storm – they found out Davey (Fifita),” Glenn said.

“Davey is a great player but when it comes down to defence it is a very crucial role.

“You need your numbers and your short side defence and that’s where Gillo’s experience really helps.

“We have been missing that experience on the right edge so hopefully we can get him out there very soon.”

Meanwhile, utility Jake Turpin has re-signed with Brisbane for another three seasons.

Brisbane are in 10th spot but just one point outside the eight ahead of their clash with arch-rivals, the 13th-placed Cowboys.

“It was devastating the performance we put up against Melbourne,” Glenn said.

“To toss that up was heartbreaking but our season is still alive. We are one point out of the eight so we still have a lot to play for.”