Slade was forced off last Friday night in Invercargill against the Brumbies after straining his groin early in the second half.
It was his first game of the season after being out for eight weeks because of a broken jaw, sustained in the first pre-season game, against the Blues, in late January.
Slade did not take a full part in training yesterday but Joseph said he was confident Slade would be available for Friday night.
Slade had not injured his leg too badly and medical staff still had a couple of days to get him right, Joseph said.
The Highlanders will take on the Cheetahs at Carisbrook on Friday night.
The Cheetahs are preparing in Queenstown and will not arrive in Dunedin until tomorrow.
From having no options in the No 10 jersey a few weeks ago, the Highlanders now have plenty of options in the pivot position.
Lima Sopoaga was back in full training yesterday and looks ready to rejoin the squad.
Sopoaga injured his shoulder in the second game of the season, against the Chiefs.
Robbie Robinson would also be available this week after being stood down last week on a disciplinary issue.
Veteran Tony Brown is also still available for the side.
