Without three front line locks, the Chiefs have sent an SOS to the retired Ross Filipo.

Scans yesterday confirmed Michael Allardice's season was over after he ruptured the medial ligament in his left knee against the Hurricanes, while Michael Fitzgerald will need more time to heal.

All Black Brodie Retallick is still out with a shoulder injury and won't be back for another two weeks.

After witnessing the consequences of having to play captain Liam Messam and flanker Liam Squire in the second row, Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has called on 36‑year‑old Filipo who last year said goodbye to first class rugby after nine seasons with Wellington.

He trained with the team yesterday.

The Chiefs play the Bulls at 7.35pm Friday while the Reds face the Sharks at 9.40pm.

(Source: Stuff.com.nz)