A dodgy hamstring could be what decides whether Manly make the finals this year after missing the boat last season.
RECRUITMENT: Plenty of changes after the disappointments of 2020, with the likes of Kieran Foran, Josh Aloiai, Andrew Davey, Jason Saab and Christian Tuipulotu bringing in some new blood.
STRENGTHS: Big-game players in the Trbojevic brothers, Daly Cherry-Evans, Foran and Marty Taupau – all capable of turning matches.
WEAKNESSES: An over-reliance on the brilliant Turbo Tom, who managed just seven matches with his hamstring problem last season. Ruck infringements are also a worry – the Sea Eagles committed more than any team in the league in 2020.
MAN UNDER PRESSURE: Foran – he has been struggling for consistency in recent seasons and a return to his roots at Manly may bring out the best in him.
ONE TO WATCH: Josh Schuster played just one game for Manly last season but there is no doubt the young utility back is headed for stardom – and soon.
WHAT THE BOOKIES SAY: To win comp $17, to make finals $1.85 (via Sportsbet)
WHAT MOLEY SAYS: If Turbo Tom stays healthy, if Schuster fulfills his potential and if Foran finds his old magic, Manly are finals bound. But that's a lot of 'ifs' – and the best they could finish is at the tail-end of the top eight.
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