Sydney Roosters were missing two of their biggest stars during Monday's training session, with skipper James Tedesco and playmaker Daly Cherry-Evans sidelined with illness.
Fresh reports from 9News reveal the pair were told to keep away from training in Moore Park after feeling unwell, for fear it could spread throughout the side and jeopardise the Roosters' premiership title hunt.
The pair are crucial in the tri-colours' chances to push for their first Grand Final triumph in seven years, and took the day off to get their bodies right before they travel north for a preliminary final.
The club also welcomed back Sam Walker on Monday, with reports revealing he took part in his first training session with the team after overcoming a syndesmosis injury in Round 26.
Walker has been missing in action since his injury in late August, but opted for keyhole surgery immediately to strengthen a case for a miraculous return before the end of the season.
If Walker can prove his fitness to the Roosters medical staff for a return this week, it becomes a significant boost to the club's chances for a premiership assault.
It is likely it will be Hugo Savala to slot into the five-eighth role alongside Walker if Cherry-Evans is unable to overcome the illness.
Meanwhile, Cody Ramsey has done a job in the fullback role while Tedesco has been out with an ankle injury during the back end of the year.
Nevertheless, the Roosters are covered with depth if Tedesco and Cherry-Evans cannot play, favouring the Dolphins heavily given the illustrious stature and firepower the duo possesses.
Cherry-Evans made the high-profile switch over the summer after 15 seasons for the Manly Sea Eagles across the bridge.
A breakdown in contract extension communication with Cherry-Evans and his long-term club allowed him to explore his options elsewhere, with the Roosters picking him up for one season for an all-in attack for a title.
The 37-year-old star will depart the club to take his talents to Hull FC in the English Super League following the conclusion of the Roosters' season.
In the meantime, they face a red-hot Dolphins outfit who are well-rested after a week off following their impressive victory over the Warriors in Week 1 of the finals.
They will face off at Suncorp Stadium on Friday, where one side will be the first to progress into the Grand Final, before Newcastle and Penrith fight for the remaining place on Sunday.
