Injuries continue to stunt Dale Copley's NRL career but the Gold Coast back is optimistic he can impress soon-to-arrive coach Justin Holbrook when he returns from shoulder surgery.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 28-year-old confirmed he will be operated on to repair a "few tears in his rotator cuff" that have hampered him all season, although it was a hamstring injury that had initially relegated him to the sidelines.
The latest setback will leave Copley with 133 games to his name across 10 NRL seasons, with the former Brisbane talent previously enduring knee and calf injuries as well as two previous shoulder complaints.
Copley scored nine tries in his 15 appearances this season, his most productive campaign since crossing 16 times for the Broncos in 25 appearances in 2014.
Contracted for another season, Copley isn't entertaining the thought of early retirement as the Titans prepare to welcome axe Holbrook - Garth Brennan's coaching replacement - in time for November's pre-season.
"I have worked with Justin before, and I'm looking forward to him getting here," Copley said.
"It's always a bit of an anxious time when a new coach comes in and, while I'll have to sit out the contact drills which will be frustrating, I'll be able to be part of the main group in December."
The Titans, on a club-worst eight game losing streak and facing a trip to Melbourne this weekend, looked destined for the wooden spoon with three games to play.
Australian Associated Press
