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North Queensland caretaker coach Josh Hannay has cast doubt over Michael Morgan's chances of recovering from injury in time for State of Origin in November.

Queensland star Michael Morgan could be in doubt for this year's State of Origin series as he continues his recovery from a torn calf.

Morgan has recently been training with his NRL club, North Queensland, raising suggestions he could play in their final-round clash with Brisbane.

His return would give the Cowboys captain some game time ahead of this year's Origin three-game battle, which has been delayed until November.

But after watching his team get pummelled 32-12 by Penrith on Friday night, Cowboys caretaker coach Josh Hannay poured cold water on any Morgan comeback.

"I'd be surprised if Morgo is right next week," Hannay said.

Injuries have limited Morgan to just six appearances this season, the last of which was in a loss to Cronulla in late August.

The 28-year-old played centre in the first two Origin games last year before being shifted to the utility role off the bench for the decider.

The likes of Dane Gagai, Hymel Hunt, Moses Mbye and Xavier Coates are likely to be in contention for two centre spots this year should Morgan be unavailable.

"I think for Mick at the moment, it's just about getting his body right. Whether he's available for Origin or not, who knows," Hannay said.

"But he needs to get his body right."

Fellow Cowboys star Jason Taumalolo made a successful return from a calf injury against the Panthers, carrying the ball for 117 metres in 40 minutes off the bench.

"It was wonderful to have him back," Hannay said after what was North Queensland's 11th defeat in their past 12 games that has left them in 14th spot.

"Replaced him there again because we restricted his minutes, but he was fine. We could've left him out there but we want to make sure he's available next week, which he will be because he pulled up well."