Anthony Seibold believes Tom Trbojevic's latest hamstring setback has actually benefited Manly's gun No.1, giving him more confidence in his preparation.
Trbojevic has shown signs of returning to his best in recent weeks, being the Sea Eagles' stand-out player in three of the four games he has had back at fullback.
In the past month alone, Trbojevic has scored five tries, set up seven, busted 16 tackles and put 11 teammates through holes for linebreaks.
Initially returning with a good slight of hand to terrorise opposition edges, Trbojevic was back to running through Canberra's defensive line in last weekend's win.
His form comes after Manly flew out English physio David O'Sullivan, in another bid to put an end to Trbojevic's hamstring woes.
"We wanted to bring in someone who could help our medical staff and Turbo look at it from a different lens," Sea Eagles coach Seibold said.
"In some ways that block of eight weeks he could really work on his mind and body. Not just the physical side, but the mental side.
"There has been lots of little things he has been working on. I just feel like he has great confidence in the preparation he has done.
"That had led to some really good performances in the five games he has been back."
Trbojevic's run has put Manly back in the top-four race, with Friday's clash against the Warriors to kick off the final month of their regular season.
But Seibold has stressed to his players he does not want them looking at the ladder, with Manly needing Cronulla to drop one of their next three games to enter top-four contention.
More immediately, Seibold has a backline selection headache to deal with.
Tolu Koula will return from a knee injury on Friday night, and is expected to come off the bench.
Koula is one of the club's most dangerous players, but teenager Lehi Hopoate has starred on the wing in his absence.
Centre Tommy Talau has been one of the NRL's most improved players this year, while teammates Jason Saab and Reuben Garrick have a formidable combination on the Sea Eagles' right side.
"We're really blessed with some outstanding quality in the backs. Lehi has been a real find for us," Seibold said.
"The biggest thing about him is he just goes after every training session or game. Whether it is reserve grade or first grade.
"He started on a six-week train-and-trial deal, for him to go from there to where he is now (is impressive).
"He is a level-headed kid, and that's what you need.
"We always knew he would play first grade. I thought it would be next year. But he has jumped into the team and done a great job in a couple of different positions."
