St Kilda star Tim Membrey has forged additional doubt over his availability for spherical one of many AFL season as returned coach Ross Lyon scrambles to drag a ahead line collectively.
The Saints are hopeful the skilled Membrey will probably be match to tackle Lyon’s former membership Fremantle on March 19, regardless of present process minor surgical procedure on his proper knee final month.
The 28-year-old informed reporters on Wednesday his rehabilitation is “coming along really well” however couldn’t assure he’ll participate within the Marvel Stadium contest.
“It’s still a couple of weeks away but it’s on the right (track),” Membrey mentioned.
“If it’s feeling good I’ll be putting my hand up but it’s still a couple of weeks away. I’ll be trying my best.”
Membrey indicated the Saints won’t take any dangers together with his health in spherical one.
“I don’t think it’s something that we really need to push if it does get dicey,” he mentioned.
“It’s a long season. I’m here to play footy, that’s what I want to do, and I’ll be trying my best.
“But if it falls that method, we’ll simply must cope with it and hopefully be proper for spherical two.”
Key forward Max King (shoulder) has already been ruled out for at least the opening six weeks of the season in a major blow to the Saints’ chances of getting off to a good start in Lyon’s second stint at the helm.
Fellow talls Jack Hayes (left foot), Matt Allison (foot) and Isaac Keeler (knee) are also sidelined, as are midfield duo Zak Jones (achilles) and Jack Billings (fractured leg).
Lyon turned to off-season recruit Zaine Cordy and reliable defender Dougal Howard to plug holes in attack during last week’s pre-season hit-out against Melbourne.
“It’s going to be an thrilling alternative for somebody to seize early on within the season,” Membrey mentioned.
“Whether it’s Dougal or Zaine up there … Mitch Owens can play that function as nicely.
“As long as they’re competing and bringing the ball to ground, we’ve got some dangerous small forwards that can certainly hit the scoreboard.”
Melbourne racked up a snug win over the Saints, who tackle Essendon at RSEA Park on Friday of their last follow match.
“We’ve got some work to do and it’s still only early, so we’re still very excited by that,” Membrey mentioned.
“There’s some good things to take out of it – our ball movement and some real positive signs off half-back.
“We’ve simply bought to maintain engaged on that little little bit of connection going inside-50.”
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
