Dugan in fitness race for Raiders

Injured Canberra star Josh Dugan is an outside chance to make the Raiders team to face Cronulla on Sunday.

The NSW Blues full-back suffered a ruptured AC joint in his shoulder against the Roosters in round three and has been sidelined ever since.

But after re-commencing weight training, Dugan is hopeful of a return against the Sharks at Canberra Stadium this weekend.

“Hopefully I’ll be back next week but I’ve just got to see how training goes,” said Dugan.

“It went pretty well today and we’ll see how it goes back into full training next week. If everything goes to plan then I should be running out Sunday.”

Dugan needs a shoulder reconstruction and is likely to opt for the groundbreaking LARS surgery at the end of the season.

“I didn’t contemplate having the surgery straight after the Roosters game because I knew I’d be out for an extended period of time”, said Dugan. 

“As a footballer you don’t want to be on the sideline whilst there are games there to be played.”

It’s likely to mean Dugan playing through the pain barrier each week, but with State of Origin selection just around the corner, Dugan is prepared to dig deep.

Added Dugan: “I’d love to play in it but at the same time I think the players that have been playing week in week out and are in good form like Brett Morris and Jarryd Hayne deserve first pick. I’m aiming for game two and hopefully my form warrants selection.”