Bateman set to return for Bulldogs clash

Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has revealed that John Bateman will make an early return from injury in Saturday night's clash against the Bulldogs at ANZ Stadium.

The England international has not played since round eight after fracturing his eye socket, giving the undermanned Raiders a timely boost.

Reeling from three-straight losses, Josh Hodgson, Jordan Rapana and Joey Leilua are all sidelined while Jack Wighton, Josh Papalii and Nick Cotric will miss due to Origin duty.

"It's good to have John back. He rang me after the game on Sunday night from England and said he'd be right to play," Stuart told reporters on Friday.

"(He's) just a really good team man who sees that we're struggling in regards to depth. I didn't think much of it to be honest but we had Steve, our team doctor, organise a specialist appointment and fortunately for us he's cleared to play."

Asked how much of a significant inclusion Bateman was, Stuart said his qualities extended off the field.

"He's been a really big boost for the club ever since he got here. His energy and enthusiasm around the club, around training. It's a great lift to the guys.

"You've got to be a special player, a special person to inspire other people, he does that. It's a good lift for us today."

The Raiders coach was unsure where he would play Bateman, simply stating: "I'll start him."