The out-of-form Roosters face a big test as they travel up the M1 to take on a spirited Knights outfit.
The Roosters desperately need to find their mojo before it’s too late, but will have to soldier on without skipper James Tedesco and workhorse prop Lindsay Collins — both on Origin duties.
MATCH CENTRE: Knights vs Roosters live updates, stats, video
Watch every game of every round of the 2023 NRL Telstra Premiership Season LIVE on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
It means coach Trent Robinson has had to tinker with a spine that’s already looking a little shaky. Joey Manu moves to fullback for Tedesco and two-game rookie Sandon Smith will wear the No.7 jersey with Luke Keary shifting to five-eighth.
Nat Butcher will start at prop, Sitili Tupouniua moves back to the second row and Naufahu Whyte comes into the side at lock after an impressive couple of months in NSW Cup.
The Knights will be without Tyson Frizell, who is in Blues camp, but the return of Lachlan Fitzgibbon from a calf injury softens that blow a little.
Star prop Daniel Saifiti was ruled out with a chest injury on Friday, meaning his twin brother Jacob will start and Brodie Jones joins the bench.
The only other change is Greg Marzhew has been excluded from the 17 for disciplinary issues, opening the door for Enari Tuala to play his first NRL game since Round 1.
The Roosters may sit just above the Knights on the ladder but have only won one of their last five games — and it was by one point.
Newcastle have won two of their last five but are coming off an admirable performance against the Broncos, which proved they can match it with the best.
Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!
Follow the action live in our blog below. If you can’t see it, click here.