A medical clearance is all that stands between Sydney Roosters forward Craig Fitzgibbon and a timely return in Sunday's crucial NRL clash with Canberra.

Fitzgibbon resumed serious training from a knee injury last week and is keen to play against the Raiders, but will need a pass from the club's medical staff.

The goalkicking forward has been sorely missed in recent weeks, even more so with a thigh injury plaguing back-up kicker Michael Crocker.

With Fitzgibbon missing through injury and Crocker unable to kick at the weekend, Chris Walker and Brad Fittler shared the duties.

The result - five tries and only two goals as the Roosters were beaten by the New Zealand Warriors 26-24.

"He has to prove to our medical people that he's ready to play," a Roosters spokesperson said.

"At this stage it's unlikely. It's just a weekly thing."

The Raiders have their own problems with five-eighth Jason Croker in serious jeopardy of missing the finals series with a broken leg.

Croker will front a press conference on Tuesday and is expected to undergo surgery on Wednesday.

Newcastle was also in the wars with captain Ben Kennedy carrying a foot injury which threatens his involvement in Sunday's game against North Queensland.

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