Jack Cogger and Connor Watson will be the new halves pairing for the Newcastle Knights when they clash against Manly on Friday night in Sydney when coach Nathan Brown to name his squad on Tuesday afternoon.
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Cogger will play halfback with Watson named at five-eighth in the absence of Mitchell Pearce, who will undergo surgery today to repair a ruptured pectoral muscle he suffered in the 22-20 win over Wests Tigers in Tamworth last weekend.
He could be out for up to four months although he is aiming to be back in 10 weeks.
Watson has not played since injuring his shoulder in the round three loss to the Sydney Roosters.
There were initial fears he may need surgery but it was decided to rehab the injury and he is looking to return well ahead of schedule.
He resumed training last weekend but needs to get through two sessions this week to prove his fitness.
Cogger performed strongly playing outside Pearce against the Tigers and has had plenty of support for his retention.
Brock Lamb is expected to again play in the Knights’ NSW Cup side.