WILLIAM Hopoate carries a famous surname. He may also carry the premiership hopes of Manly in coming weeks as the Sea Eagles prepare for five months without talismanic fullback Brett Stewart.

Hopoate, son of former rugby league bad boy John Hopoate, is yet to turn 18, but he is among the players in line to benefit from Stewart's long-term knee injury.

It won't be this week, with Michael Robertson named as fullback against Parramatta at Parramatta Stadium.

But coach Des Hasler conceded that Hopoate was under consideration to play fullback in coming weeks as the Sea Eagles consider their options in the absence of Stewart.

"Look at the options we have at fullback. We have Michael Robertson, who did a great job last year, Ben Farrar and young Hoppa," Hasler said.

"Farrar and Robertson would probably have the edge in experience over Will, but that's not to say that at some stage during the year Will will not get a shot at it, and he's more than ready to take that chance."

He joined the full-time squad this year but, after playing with the first grade side in the pre-season, dropped back to Toyota Cup last weekend.

While his father is remembered for his power and aggression, as well as his numerous indiscretions, William relies on speed and guile. He has already made an impression on his teammates.

"He's a great prospect," co-captain Jamie Lyon said. "I think he's got a big future and he's a great kid. If he gets a shot this week I think it will be good for him."

Stewart is out for an extended period, and prop George Rose will miss Sunday's game after pleading guilty to a high tackle charge yesterday.

However, teammates Kieran Foran and Brent Kite will be free to play after failing to accrue enough penalty points to be suspended on high tackle charges.

Parramatta winger Luke Burt, who will make his 200th first grade appearance on Sunday, has signed a two-year extension with the club.

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