Marquee forward Luke Thompson has been ruled out of Canterbury's round 24 NRL clash with Cronulla after testing positive to COVID-19.
Thompson missed training on Wednesday evening after complaining of feeling sick and will now self-isolate for seven days.
Saturday's game was supposed to be the 27-year-old's first appearance in the starting side since May after he suffered a serious concussion and then took further leave to be with his sick mother in England.
Reportedly earning around $800,000 per season, Thompson made his return via the bench in last week's hefty loss to Parramatta.
The Bulldogs are yet to name his replacement but the omission looms as a significant blow.
"He brings experience and he's a big body," winger Josh Addo-Carr told reporters.
"He's had some issues with his head and some family issues but just seeing his body language last week, he couldn't wait to step out on the field."
Thompson is contracted until the end of next season but his future remains the subject of speculation, given his hefty salary and the imminent coaching changes at the Bulldogs.
"To have him around for the next couple of years could be good," Addo-Carr said.
"He's won premierships, he's played for his country.
"He's a wonderful bloke and the ultimate professional. That's what we need at this club."
