Tom Learoyd-Lahrs admits it will be a relief to get back to the NRL following a difficult State of Origin campaign for NSW.

The big Canberra backrower was a stand-out performer at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday against Queensland, despite finishing on the losing side, and the 24-year-old said it is up to himself and the likes of Terry Campese and Maroons forward David Shillington to kick-start the Raiders flagging season.

David Furner's team sit in 12th spot, six points outside of the top eight, and have lost their last four matches. Lahrs said Saturday's clash with Manly at Brookvale could shape their campaign.

"It is a tough place to go but we need to win desperately and although we have not been winning, we are not playing badly and I believe we are close to turning the corner," Lahrs said.

"Playing Origin means the world to me, but it is over now and it will be good to focus on making a push for the finals.

"I believe we have players who are good enough to be playing finals football but we all need to prove it and that starts on Saturday."

Lahrs and Shillington will both face the Sea Eagles after suffering no major problems from Origin, and the Blues star shrugged off any concerns about a corked thigh he picked up just before halftime.

"It should be fine, I will ice it and give it a bit of rest, but I will definitely be fit to face Manly," Lahrs said.

However, the Green Machine has been hit by the loss of in-form centre Joel Thompson who will be sidelined for two to three weeks with a groin problem.

Thompson will be replaced by former Queensland winger Adam Mogg who will also spend time at hooker with Raiders coach Furner wary of overworking Travis Waddell, who is the only fit rake available to him with Alan Tongue and Glen Buttriss out through injury.

Manly will be at full strength and go into the game on the back of a bye. The Sea Eagles have a formidable record in matches played after a break, having won their last eight.

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