Rugby: Cooper has three games to prove himself

Quede Cooper could be a risky World Cup selection. Photo / Richard Robinson

Three Super Rugby games should still be enough for Quade Cooper to prove his Wallaby World Cup worth, says Queensland Reds coach Richard Graham.

The Reds have taken a cautious approach with Cooper, who has fully recovered from his fractured scapula but was not considered for tomorrow's clash with the Sharks at Suncorp Stadium.

Graham said picking Cooper would be too risky, given his lack of contact work at training and loss of strength and bulk after a second serious shoulder injury this year.

"We're probably only a couple of days short, but given he's been out for so long and he's had a couple of injuries in that area, it's best to be conservative."

Graham confirmed Cooper would be ready for the following weekend's trip to face the Western Force, before the Reds close the season against the Chiefs (home) and Waratahs (away).

That will give him three more opportunities to show Wallabies coach Michael Cheika that he still has a part to play at the World Cup and beyond, despite the past 24 injury-ravaged months.

"I'd suggest that's enough time if Cheika's comfortable," Graham said.

Cooper is yet to make up his mind about where he will play next season, with a rich offer from European powerhouse Toulon on the table.

The more appearances for the Wallabies he makes this year, the simpler his choice may become.

The 27-year-old needs seven more caps to qualify for the Australian Rugby Union's new Wallaby eligibility cutoff of 60 caps for overseas-based players.

Cooper's halves partner Will Genia, who has committed himself to move to France next year, can't wait for his halves partner to return.

"It'd be great to have him back, he's obviously world class and makes a massive difference for whatever team he plays for," Genia said.

In the meantime, rookie flyhalf Jake McIntyre retains the No10 jersey after his terrific debut in Queensland's big win over the Melbourne Rebels last Friday.

Genia said he was impressed with how the northern NSW product handled the occasion.

The Reds have made just one change to their squad for the Sharks clash, with Chris Kuridrani replacing Lachie Turner (concussion).

- AAP