Worrying Mitchell Moses detail comes to light ahead of crucial State of Origin push

Michael Maguire is facing another possible setback to his halves options after it was revealed Mitchell Moses didn't appear close to playing Magic Round this weekend as the Eels star still works on his recovery. Nathan Cleary's injury to his hamstring, which has ruled him out of the entire Origin series, has left debutant coach Maguire a big decision to make.

Moses played Game II and III last year when Cleary was also ruled out. He played a strong Game III and many were hoping he would return for the Eels in Magic round to get two games in for match fitness before the Origin teams were selected.

However, reporter David Riccio has claimed Moses might not be ready for an Origin return having failed to make it back to full training. He even claimed Moses hasn't put boots back on yet, which isn't a good sign if Maguire was looking at bringing the halfback in for the Blues.

“There was high optimism going into last weekend that Mitch Moses would be back this weekend to play in Magic Round,” David Riccio told SEN Radio. “However, he attempted to run yesterday and he was only kept to light duties.

“He’s only done straight line running and he’s still training in joggers. He is still yet to put the boots on. He may be able to get on the park next week but the issue with that is that it’s only 80 minutes to show Michale Maguire what he’s got.

"It’s really cutting the decision fine for Maguire and it would be a roll of the dice to pick Moses after 9-10 weeks out. With only one match back, it’d be a huge call.”

Nicho Hynes firms as Blues halfback after injuries

Hynes didn't play the game against the Sharks having withdrawn before the clash with a hamstring injury. While no certainty this week, Hynes is expected to return in round 11 having been named in the team. The halfback didn't play the final two games last year having been dropped by Brad Fittler having only made an appearance off the bench last year.

There is no doubting Hynes' form in 2024 with the Sharks sitting at the top of the ladder. Many believes Hynes was going to star alongside Cleary this year in the halves combination. However, both Fittler and former Blues captain Paul Gallen have warned Maguire of picking both Moses and Hynes in the team.

After initially floating the idea, Gallen backtracked and called for Jarome Luai to be given another chance at the five-eighth role. "I think Luai [should be picked]," he said on Nine's 100% Footy. "Luai is going well, he's a good player - I think Luai and Nicho in the halves would be good. Nicho plays on the right-hand side of the field … he plays all over the park when it comes to the Sharks. Luai obviously likes the left-hand side of the field.

"I think Moses would have to play good and one game, I don't know if that's enough. If he had two games under his belt, you probably wouldn't question it." NRL supremo Phil Gould agreed Luai would do a great job in the No.6 jersey, but backed Moses to return after one game and play halfback.