Veteran South Sydney forward Glenn Stewart could be called upon to play his 200th NRL game in the halves for Friday night’s grudge match against Canterbury.
Utility John Sutton may join suspended pair Luke Keary and Issac Luke on the sidelines after revealing he was still struggling with a buttock strain suffered in last week’s win over North Queensland.
The former Rabbitohs captain is unsure whether he’ll be right to go against the Bulldogs.
“I haven’t done much running yet. I’ve got to get out there today and get a couple of tests and see how I go,” Sutton said on Tuesday.
“I don’t know what Madge (Michael Maguire) has got in store with the team just yet.
“If I have to go back to the halves, I enjoy playing back there. If I get my chance, I’ll be relishing it.”
If Sutton is ruled out, the 31-year-old Stewart will be expected to slot straight back in after serving a one-game ban for a high tackle.
The former Manly star will bring up the double-century mark in the ANZ Stadium clash.
“We’re all about milestones at this club,” said Rabbitohs teammate Tim Grant.
“To get out there and perform well for him is at the top of the list.”
With back-up rake Cameron McInnes still nursing an ankle problem, mid-season recruit Paul Carter is expected to line up at hooker.
The sacked Gold Coast Titan played just 12 minutes in his Rabbitohs debut against the Cowboys but will now be relied upon to provide significant minutes.
“Ever since he’s got here he’s trained really hard and forced his way into the team,” Sutton said.
“He only had a little cameo on the weekend but I thought he went really well.
“He’s going to add a lot for us.”