Manly will be without Lachlan Croker for the start of the season after the club's starting hooker underwent surgery for a knee injury.
The 28-year-old was spotted wearing a brace at training this week and the Sea Eagles have since confirmed he won't be available for the first month of their campaign.
Croker had arthroscopic surgery to his left knee before the Christmas break and is recovering well, but isn't expected back until round four.
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One of Manly's most consistent performers in recent years, Croker will leave a hole in the middle of the field for clashes against the Cowboys, Warriors and Raiders.
Lachlan Croker will miss the start of the season.  Getty
In his absence, young gun Gordon Chan Kum Tong is expected to slot into the No.9 role after deputising behind Croker last year.
The livewire Samoan international has played 12 first games for the Sea Eagles.
Chan Kum Tong could potentially split the dummy-half duties with new recruit Jazz Tevaga, who departed the Warriors after almost a decade at the club.
