Ray’s hope of return

NORTH Queensland Cowboys utility Ray Thompson says he is determined to return from injury despite announcing he will retire from rugby league at the end of the year.

The 27-year-old has been limited to six games this year due to ongoing knee issues which he admits played a part in his decision to walk away at year’s end.

However, Thompson said he wanted to return for a Cowboys NRL finals tilt and has made himself available for Papua New Guinea’s 2017 World Cup campaign.

“I’ve battled through some injuries throughout my career so now was the right time to call curtains but rest assured I’ll be giving it my all for the rest of the season,” he said.

Thompson played 111 NRL games since his 2009 debut.