Manly prop Matt Lodge is poised  to make a rapid return from a career-threatening injury

After undergoing a significant setback with an ACL tear, rugged prop Matt Lodge appears set to make a remarkable comeback to the rugby league field, less than eight months since the injury cast a shadow of uncertainty over his career.

Following their victorious season opener against the Rabbitohs in Las Vegas, the Sea Eagles have received a substantial morale boost with news of Lodge’s upcoming testing, anticipated to grant him clearance for his imminent return to active play.

Last August, the 28-year-old endured a devastating ACL rupture during a match against his former team, the Roosters. Such an injury typically entails a prolonged rehabilitation period, with many players struggling to resume action within a year due to potential complications.

However, Manly extended a lifeline to Lodge by offering him a fresh contract despite the lengthy recovery ahead. Encouragingly, Lodge has defied expectations, progressing swiftly in his rehabilitation, and is now on the brink of resuming competitive play within a month.

Pending clearance in the forthcoming week, Lodge will intensify his training regimen over the ensuing fortnight before being officially deemed fit for matchday action. According to Manly coach Anthony Seibold, Lodge has been diligently integrating back into skills training, demonstrating impressive fitness levels and serving as a supportive mentor to fellow injured player Zane Dunford.

With Lodge’s imminent return, the Sea Eagles anticipate bolstering their prospects for a top-eight finish this season, adding his formidable presence to a seasoned forward pack alongside stalwarts like Jake Trbojevic, Taniela Paseka, Tof Sipley, Josh Aloiai, and Nathan Brown.

In addition to securing the services of veteran forward Aaron Woods and former Tigers prop Aitasi James to enhance their front-row depth, Lodge’s comeback represents another valuable asset for Seibold’s squad as they aim to reemerge as contenders for the premiership, following a downturn in the latter half of the previous season.

Having joined Manly midway through the preceding season after a stint with the Roosters, Lodge will soon don the Sea Eagles jersey in competitive action, marking his fifth NRL club and poised to play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for success.