The Chiefs look set to play the Lions this weekend in Pukekohe without flanker Liam Messam and winger Tim Nanai-Williams due to injury.

The more serious injury of the two is Tim Nanai-Williams as he will miss the next three weeks with a recurring groin injury that tightened up after the Hurricanes game last weekend.

Nanai-Williams said that all of the Steelers have been looking forward to the game this weekend.

"Been with Counties since I was at school so it would've been real great if I could get on the pitch this week," he told RadioSport.

"Old Pukekohe they haven't seen a Super Rugby game since Jonah and that were playing for Counties apparently."

Nanai-Williams said that the injury has troubled him all season and that he just wants to get it right.

Liam Messam has a rib cartilage injury and coach Dave Rennie has hinted that he might rest his co-captain even though Messam wants to play.

Meanwhile Robbie Robinson is still in doubt as he is struggling to shake off a calf injury.

The good news is that halfback Tawera Kerr Barlow took part in full training on Tuesday and should be available for selection against the Lions.