Gold Coast are confident star second-rower Kevin Proctor won't spend any more time on the sideline after he aggravated a groin injury against Sydney Roosters.
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Proctor limped from the field in the first half of the 34-14 loss, and did not return as the Titans opted to take a cautious approach with the Kiwi representative.
The injury was a repeat of the one suffered in a Cameron Smith tackle against Melbourne a fortnight ago, but the Titans have the bye next week and coach Garth Brennan is not concerned about his long-term fitness.
"He was probably close to going back on again but I'm not going to risk a player if he's not right," Brennan said.
"It's hard enough playing with 12 men but you can't play with a player out there that's not 100 per cent fit and healthy."
Proctor's presence at the Gold Coast will likely prove crucial over the State of Origin rounds.
Jarrod Wallace and Jai Arrow are likely to both run out for Queensland in the series opener, and could leave the Titans drastically short in forward depth in the Origin-affected round 17 against Brisbane.
"He (Proctor) will be important - he's a bit of a leader," Brennan said.
"So will Nathan Peats, if he doesn't get picked in Origin he will be a big advantage having him around as well with his experience.
"Good luck to those guys who play Origin if they make it. It will be great for the club and for them to bring back some experience and knowledge from those Origin camps."
Meanwhile, Brennan will again be forced to make a call on struggling back-rower Bryce Cartwright ahead of their clash with South Sydney after the bye.
The ex-Penrith star was stronger in attack but again failed to make an effort to tackle flying Rooster James Tedesco in the lead-up to a late try, the same thing he was criticised for against the Storm's Cameron Munster earlier this month.
Australian Associated Press
