NRL 2023: Tom Trbojevic reveals Manly Sea Eagles’ return date

Tom Trbojevic, a standout for the Manly Sea Eagles who was previously declared out for the season, has revealed when he will return this year—with a catch.

Strong fullback Tom Trbojevic's shoulder injury is getting better, and the star fullback knows that he could be back in two of the finals if he heals in 11 weeks as planned.

Trbojevic doesn't want to say for sure that he will play in the finals, but he has said that his recovery is "going well" and that his arm is no longer in a sling.

The Sea Eagles will also have to think hard about whether or not it's worth risking their $1 million-a-year star player for one or two games at the end of the season.

And it's quite obvious that Manly needs to make the playoffs before Trbojevic is eligible to play.

After only two minutes of play on June 21 in Brisbane during State of Origin II, Trbojevic suffered a pectoral injury.

In July, the masthead announced Trbojevic's potential availability for a late-season playoff appearance.

11 weeks is the estimated time span. They think 12 weeks is the most likely time frame, although it might be a week early.

By the second week, I might have a shot. If we make it to the finals, it would have to be a few weeks in.

I'm not giving it any thought; instead, I'm focusing on getting well and happy. I'm not going to get my hopes up.

A week ago, I was still in a sling, but now I'm starting to move it about again. Next week, I will initiate my strength pec routine. Next week, I have an appointment with the surgeon.

It's feeble, but it's not hurting me at all.

I haven't directly questioned them, but I figure it's safe to resume training once your strength returns. That seems to be the procedure.

Trbojevic responded positively when asked about his healing process: "Yeah, it's going nicely.

It's frustrating to sit on the sidelines and watch the games when I know I could be helping out in some way.

I help out from the coaching booth. I review the game to find ways to improve our performance.

It was initially assumed that Trbojevic would be sidelined for the remainder of this season; however, the club now has optimism that he could return for a late cameo appearance, which is eagerly anticipated should Manly slip into the playoffs.

Brothers Following injuries sustained throughout the middle of the season, Jake and Ben Trbojevic are now playing together again.

Manly is aware that Dolphins halfback Sean O'Sullivan was well enough to return from a pectoral injury after sitting out for a total of 12 games.

O'Sullivan suffered a pectoral injury during the fourth-round match against Brisbane but returned for the 17th-round match against Parramatta. He had the opportunity to play in round 16, but the Dolphins were given a bye in that game.

At fullback, Reuben Garrick has done a great job since taking over for Trbojevic.