Dugan still possible starter against Raiders

Injured fullback Josh Dugan will be given until the 11th hour to prove his fitness and make a surprise return against his former club Canberra on Saturday.

Dugan injured his ankle during St George Illawarra's round one loss to Melbourne at Jubilee Oval and sat out Monday night's loss to Wests Tigers.

He was taken through some light-running work at WIN Stadium on Wednesday under the eye of club physios away from the main group.

Dugan will be put through more rigorous testing at training on Friday and will need to impress his coaches and doctors to earn a shock call-up.

Word from Dragons training on Wednesday suggested coach Paul McGregor will hold off until just hours before the 5.30pm kick-off to make the final call on Dugan's availability.

If he fails to get up for the game Peter Mata'utia will retain the No 1 jersey.

Mata'utia was thrilled to make a return to first grade and is keen to play a role for the team throughout the season.

However, he says he is happy with whatever McGregor decides to do.

"I enjoy it and I love it," Mata'utia said.

"I love fullback, I love centre as well but wherever the team needs me I'll play.

"We're taking it week by week, we're not too sure when 'Duges' is back.

"Whatever team Mary picks this week should get the job done down in Canberra."

Mata'utia made nine appearances in the top grade for the Dragons last year after moving south from Newcastle to join the club.

Dugan played 70 games for Canberra before the club terminated his contract mid-2013 and he eventually moved to Wollongong to join the Red V.

He returned to the nation's capital last season to help the Dragons break a 14-year hoodoo in the city and beat the Raiders.