Eagles coach Adam Simpson has conceded star ruckman Nic Naitanui is “doubtful” to be handed match for the season opener in what looms as a big blow for West Coast’s hopes of beating North Melbourne.
It comes amid a extra optimistic signal for fellow veteran Luke Shuey, who has been cleared to line up in Friday’s pre-season conflict in opposition to Adelaide.
Naitanui might be sidelined for a second straight pre-season match as he battles to beat Achilles soreness.
“If this was round 15 he’d be playing, but it’s a long year,” Simpson mentioned at Thursday’s season launch at Crown.
“We want to try and get in front of it. I haven’t got a timeline on it other than it will be small steps rather than just continue to go.
“It’s March, so we need to take our time with it.
“Is he right for round one? I can’t answer that just yet. He is doubtful.”
After back-to-back All-Australian berths and John Worsfold medals in 2020 and 2021, Naitanui made simply eight appearances final season within the Eagles’ horror two-win marketing campaign and completed the 12 months present process minor knee surgical procedure.
Shuey gained’t play the complete sport in opposition to the Crows as he presses his case for spherical one following what Simpson described as a “niggle”.
“It’s a slow burn with Luke,” Simpson mentioned.
“The next week is really important. It is a bye week for the industry but we’ll have a hit-out next Friday and he’ll play a full game then.”
Simpson mentioned fellow veteran Jack Darling was “ticking boxes” as he pushes for his personal spot in West Coast’s spherical one aspect amid an ankle damage.
Top draft decide Reuben Ginbey has been confirmed for Friday’s scratch match at Mineral Resources Park after lacking final week’s apply sport with toe soreness.
Jack Petruccelle, Jake Waterman and Jamaine Jones can even come into to the aspect, with the Eagles to launch the complete squad on Thursday afternoon.
More to return
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
