Stewart was named yesterday to play his first game of 2009 against the Wests Tigers at Brookvale Oval this Sunday after missing four weeks for an NRL-imposed suspension for breaching its code of conduct.

The Test and NSW fullback was the competition's leading tryscorer in 2008 and while Orford says Stewart's return will boost the confidence within the squad, ultimately the entire team has to lift if they're to save their season.

Based on last year's final standings, the winless Manly would have to win 15 of its 20 remaining games to reach the top four.

''We're not expecting at all for Snake [Stewart] to go out and score four tries and be a match-winner,'' Orford said.

''It's his first game since the World Club Challenge [on March 1], he has got to find his feet and get a bit of match fitness.

''He is definitely an important part in what we do in attack. He reads the game and pops up all over the shop.

''When we make line-breaks Snake is usually the one who finishes it off.

''He is going to be a huge confidence booster, but I'm not going to put any pressure on him whatsoever.

''It's not all on his shoulders. We have to roll the sleeves up, get dirty and get into footy.''

Orford said he had no concerns about Stewart's mental state ahead of his NRL return.

The 24-year-old pleaded not guilty yesterday to offences relating to a 17-year-old girl allegedly committed after a booze-fuelled season launch last month.

He is charged with having sexual intercourse without the consent of the teenager at North Manly on March 6.

Stewart has continued training with the team throughout his suspension and Orford believes his teammate has handled the ordeal well.

''He has dug down and put his mind on football and that's his job. Everything else will take care of itself,'' Orford said.

''He is here to play football and that is where he will be his happiest.'' AAP