TWO exciting young Blues are due to return to action next week.

While it was initially hoped that David Cuningham would be available for selection for Saturday’s trip to Sydney, it’s looking likely that the speedster will miss all action this weekend.

A hyperextension of his knee at training has ruled out Cuningham out for the last two games.

Director of High Performance Andrew Russell said it was more likely that Cuningham would return for the Round 18 clash against the Gold Coast Suns.

“Cuningham’s knee hasn’t settled quite as we expected,” Russell said.

“At this stage, we’re thinking he’ll miss this week and be available the week after.”

Likely to join Cuningham in his availability next weekend is first-year Blue Liam Stocker.

Stocker was ruled out for the last four games with a foot complaint: a return to training this week should see the 19-year-old back in action next weekend.

“Stocker is settling really well, he’s going to train on Thursday,” Russell said.

“He’s a really good chance to play the following week.”

Russell also shed further light on the injury of Caleb Marchbank, with the defender to miss the remainder of the season after sustaining a non-displaced fracture in his neck.

“Marchbank unfortunately got a hit to the back, which result in a small fracture in the base of his neck,” he said.

“We don’t expect this to be a long form injury: we think he’s going to recover full and have a full pre-season.”

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