Duo back to bolster Rabbitohs

SOUTH Sydney captain Adam Reynolds is confident the return of Cody Walker and James Roberts will give them the impetus they need to turn their season around.

Walker will make an anticipated comeback into the Rabbitohs line-up after completing a two-game NRL ban for his street fight last December.

And Roberts is all but certain to join him after missing the past two matches as he recovers his fitness following a stint in rehabilitation.

“I’m not sure what Wayne’s (Bennett, coach) thinking, but both boys will be available for selection and we’re excited to get them both back,” Reynolds said yesterday ahead of Saturday’s match against Gold Coast. “They’re a big part of our side.”

Their inclusions will be a huge boost for a Rabbitohs side that has dropped three on the trot and is mired in the bottom half of the ladder. Former

NSW State of Origin playmaker Walker will come in at the expense of rookie Troy Dargan, who was solid over the first two games of his career.

“Troy Dargan’s come in and done a great job for us. He’s a solid player,” Reynolds said.

“It’d be good to get Cody Walker back though. He’s controlling that left edge there and he’s a vital part of our team.”

Reynolds revealed Walker addressed the team about the off-field incident in the northern NSW town of Casino that resulted in his suspension.

He was also slapped with a suspended $15,000 fine, while the club was also fined $20,000 for not informing the league’s integrity unit.

“He apologised,” Reynolds said. “He’s done his time now, he’s ready to get back out there and play some footy.”

The pair’s return completes a dangerous spine that includes fullback Latrell Mitchell, one of the Rabbitohs’ best in Friday’s loss to Melbourne.