Robinson said he was surprised when Walker told him two weeks ago that his target was to be available for the penultimate game of the season, but the 24‑year‑old has now met that goal and earned his place in the line‑up.
Walker suffered a syndesmosis ankle injury in the Roosters’ 26‑12 loss to the Dolphins at Allianz Stadium less than two months ago, prompting fears that his season was over after he hobbled off the field.
In addition to returning to the halves, the Queensland playmaker will resume his goalkicking duties, a decision Robinson attributed to the precision of the medical team and Walker’s own mindset during rehabilitation.
Walker’s selection pushes rising utility Hugo Savala back onto the interchange bench after Savala filled in alongside Daly Cherry‑Evans in the halves during Walker’s absence; Robinson praised Savala for earning the right to continue playing.
Billy Smith’s position at left centre remains locked in, and while Robinson declined to detail any further changes, he hinted that the coaching staff had given the line‑up considerable thought ahead of Friday’s match.
The upcoming game is a grand‑final qualifier, offering the Roosters a chance to secure a third victory over the Dolphins this year and keep their premiership hopes alive.