Wests Tigers playmaker Luke Brooks faces a fight to return this season as the NRL club battles to avoid a maiden wooden spoon.
The Tigers confirmed on Thursday that Brooks picked up a calf complaint during a training session and would be sidelined for up to six weeks, with six games remaining starting with Saturday's clash against Brisbane.
Brooks, who was close to leaving for Newcastle at the start of this year, continues to be linked with an off-season move and a season-ending injury could mark the end of his time at the last-placed Tigers.
The Tigers said young playmaker Jock Madden would take Brooks' spot against the Broncos, with Jackson Hastings to remain at lock.
"Jock has done well for us whenever he's been called upon this season," said interim coach Brett Kimmorley.
The Tigers expect second-rower Luke Garner (neck) to return next week against Newcastle.
