Save for perhaps Paul Gallen himself, no one is more invested in the veteran skipper’s injury verdict than Joseph Paulo.Should Gallen not recover from his shoulder injury in time to face Melbourne, Paulo will be called up into a reshuffled Cronulla outfit.It would be a significant development not only for the Sharks but for Paulo himself, who has the distinction of being the most seasoned active player not to have played finals football.The former Panthers and Eels utility has notched 166 games since making his NRL debut in 2008, but none of them have been the semi-final variety.Given he has signed with St Helens next year, this is his last chance to experience an NRL play-off. But rather than working Gallen
over with a voodoo doll, the 30-year-old hopes the former NSW skipper is available for the Storm clash.“As a team we want to see our best players out there and hopefully it works out for him,” Paulo said.“He’s doing everything he can and everyone knows what kind of professional he is. We’ll see how his shoulder pulls up.“For someone in my position, you have to be ready. When I’m training I’m not thinking about guys going down, I’m thinking about what I can do if I get my chance.“I’ve waited a long time if it does come. I’m not expecting much, we all know the player we have in Paul Gallen and that he’s a guy who overcomes sickness and injuries. He’s as tough as they come.”The Sharks named Gallen to play when the team lists were released on Tuesday, and he will be given up until Thursday to prove his fitness.Paulo remained philosophical when informed about his unwanted record.“It’s not something you want as your biggest record,” he said.
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