NRL: McClennan has his eye on the 'Fish'

Glen Fisiiahi has been performing well, waiting for an opportunity to make a return to the first-grade side. Photo / Getty Images

Kevin Locke wasn't talking to the media yesterday - the injured Warriors fullback was off limits as he battles to be fit to face the Roosters in Sydney on Saturday night.

Instead of fielding questions, he spent his time repeatedly throwing a medicine ball high up against the gym wall, an exercise presumably designed to help free up the cork he suffered above his knee during last weekend's victory over the Titans.

"Man, I hate this," was about all Locke would say.

Head coach Brian McClennan was little more forthcoming. The typically garrulous McClennan almost appeared to be channelling his inner Ivan Cleary as he fended off questions. The coach is certainly a touch tense ahead of a match some might perceive as a banker against a wounded, highly-motivated Roosters side tomorrow.

"Okay," was how McClennan assessed Locke's progress. Strike winger Manu Vatuvei was progressing "really, really well" in his recovery from a hamstring niggle. If either fails to return to fitness by tomorrow night, Glen Fisiiahi should make his return to the first-grade side. Hugely impressive in two matches at fullback last year, but off the pace in two matches on the wing and then discarded, Fisiiahi has been shredding defences for the Vulcans in the Toyota Cup this season. His last two matches have produced nine tries.

McClennan conceded there would be a bit of excitement among fans if the supremely quick Fisiiahi were to take the field.

"There certainly would. That just shows the development system at the club is working really well. Fish [Fisiiahi] is crying out for an opportunity and if that should arise this weekend I am sure he will make the most of it."

McClennan is wary of both the bounceback factor after a heavy defeat and the fact the Roosters will be celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the club's grand final win over the Warriors, with the bulk of the squad from that match to be honoured at the game.

"We know it is going to be a big challenge."