Cronulla halfback Jeff Robson will miss the opening few rounds of the NRL season after being diagnosed with multiple facial injuries.
Robson was taken from the field after 25 minutes of the 28-22 trial loss to Wests Tigers at Remondis Stadium on Saturday night.
He stayed in hospital overnight for scans with club CEO Steve Noyce confirming Robson has cheekbone and jaw injuries.
“The doctor will advise the club as to when Jeff will be available to play again,” said Sharks CEO Steve Noyce.
“It is too early to say at this stage.”
The injury to Robson is a major blow to the Sharks, who are hoping to have five-eighth Todd Carney back from a hamstring injury suffered in the Auckland Nines tournament in time for their round-one clash against Gold Coast.
Robson had combined well with new recruit Daniel Holdsworth in the halves before suffering the injury.
NSW and Australian prop Andrew Fifita said it would be tough without Robson.
“Robbo will be a massive loss for us. He is one of the best halves I have ever played with,” Fifita said.
“He talks 24/7 on the field and we will badly miss his leadership and direction.”
Meanwhile, Fifita reinforced why he is in hot demand with another quality performance against Wests Tigers.
The talented ballplayer played 65 minutes and scored the team’s first try before setting up a try for Sam Tagatese with a flick pass late in the game.
South Sydney and the Sydney Roosters, along with rugby union, are reportedly chasing the signature of the off-contract Fifita for 2015. Cronulla are also very keen to re-sign their damaging front-rower.
Fifita said he would weigh up the offers in front of him when the time was right.
“I’ve just changed managers so I will wait until he gets it all on paper,” Fifita said.
“I will have a look at them and do what is best for my family. The Sharks have been very good to me and made me into the person I am today.
“I arrived here at Cronulla (from Wests Tigers) as part of a package deal. I will always be thankful to the Sharks no matter what I decide because they got me to where I am today.”
Cronulla coach Peter Sharp is confident Carney, Beau Ryan (neck), Bryce Gibbs (hand) and Chris Heighington (calf) will be right to play in round one.
Captain Paul Gallen was rested after making a successful professional boxing debut on Wednesday night and returns to training on Monday.