Shock Knights return for Gidley

Newcastle skipper Kurt Gidley has passed a fitness test and will take his place in the team to take on undefeated Canterbury on Sunday.

Gidley suffered a dislocated shoulder in the round 2 win over Cronulla, but has recovered quicker than expected and will line up against the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium.

Knights coach Wayne Bennett did not include Gidley in the team named on Tuesday but is expected to include the Australia international in the starting line-up.

Centre Timana Tahu will play his 100th NRL match after joining the Knights for a second stint over the off season.

Canterbury coach Des Hasler meanwhile can pick from a fully-fit squad for the encounter, including the likes of quicksilver fullback Ben Barba.

Speaking before the match, full-back Ben Barba said the prospect of facing a resurgent Newcastle side is something the Bulldogs won’t be taking lightly.

“We’re expecting a very physical game and a very switched-on team, any team coached by Wayne Bennett is always going to be ready to play,” Barba said.

“Even though they’ve got a few injuries we’re expecting a very tough match.”