The Cronulla rugby league coach Shane Flanagan says Paul Gallen's knee injury is less severe than first feared and he expects his captain to be ready for NSW state of origin series opener later this month.
Gallen hobbled from the field in the 57th minute of Cronulla's dramatic 34-28 NRL loss to the Rabbitohs in Sydney last night, telling Sharks medical officials he felt something go in his right knee as he surrendered in a tackle.
Suspension is also threatening Blues skipper's involvement in state of origin one after he was placed on report for a knee to the head of Dave Taylor while they were getting to their feet after a tackle.
However Flanagan says there's nothing for Gallen to fear in the report and he's confident the back rower hasn't injured his anterior cruciate ligament, as first feared.
Gallen is booked in this morning for scans on the injured knee.
