Hunt to return on wing against Eels

Brisbane have named Justin Hodges at full-back ahead of Karmichael Hunt for Sunday's round 25 NRL clash with the Eels at Parramatta Stadium.

Hunt is making his first appearance since round 18 after being sidelined with a foot injury and he has been selected on the wing as a result of Hodges' sound performances in the number one jersey in the Broncos' past two matches.

The inclusion of Hunt is at the expense of Darius Boyd, who has been named as 18th man. Hodges said he felt for Hunt having to return in an unfamiliar position.

"I'm pretty happy but at the same time it's probably a little bit disappointing for Karmichael, but he hasn't played in about 10 weeks, and I think it's something to just get him back and just get him a couple of games under his belt," he said.

With two rounds remaining before the finals, the winner of Sunday's match will be well positioned to claim a top-four place at the conclusion of the minor premiership.

Both sides are on 28 points with the Eels in fourth place and the Broncos holding down fifth position due to an inferior for-and-against difference. Newcastle, St George Illawarra and Canberra are also on 28 points.

Meanwhile, competition leaders Melbourne have named Billy Slater at full-back for Saturday's encounter with the Raiders at Canberra Stadium.

Slater is returning from a two-match suspension and his inclusion sees Greg Inglis move to the centres with Jake Webster to start from the interchange bench.