St Kilda could have a full complement of defensive choices to choose from forward of its elimination ultimate, with Josh Battle and Dougal Howard cleared to return.
Battle will slot into the aspect for Saturday’s elimination ultimate in opposition to GWS after he entered the concussion protocols following the spherical 24 loss to Brisbane, whereas Howard is not any assure to play after overcoming a wrist damage as a result of sturdy type of his alternative Zaine Cordy.
But the Saints have determined to place key ahead Jack Hayes on ice for the remainder of the season after he suffered a calf pressure at coaching final week following his comeback recreation in opposition to the Lions.
The 27-year-old will go beneath the knife once more for a clear out of his knee, along with his sights set on a full pre-season.
Acting soccer boss David Misson mentioned the Saints had been additionally “hopeful” Seb Ross can be accessible to face the Giants as he recovers from a hamstring pressure.
“The pre-finals bye has been beneficial as we look to strengthen our list and have as many players as possible available for the upcoming month,” Misson mentioned.
“We’re also hopeful that Seb Ross will be available for selection, he’ll just need to pass a few fitness tests this week.
“We’re pleased to have Dougal and Josh available for this week’s final.”
Hayes made a brilliant begin to 2022 after being snapped up as an SSP choice out of the SANFL, however earlier than the Lions recreation he had not been sighted at senior degree since spherical 6 final yr resulting from an ACL damage and subsequent foot and hamstring setbacks.
He is contracted till the tip of subsequent yr.
“It was great to see Jack back at AFL level in round 24, but his recovery since that game hasn’t been linear,” Misson mentioned.
“He was quite sore after the game but then subsequently strained a calf in training last week.”
First-year ahead Anthony Caminiti has additionally been cleared to go away the concussion protocols and is offered for Saturday’s recreation, whereas skilled pair Zak Jones (knee) and Dan McKenzie (calf) are near returning to full coaching.
Meanwhile, Sydney expects small ahead Tom Papley to be accessible to play Carlton on Friday evening after hamstring tightness stored him out of spherical 24, whereas Justin McInerney is racing the clock to be match after a month on the sidelines with a calf pressure.
“Tom is recovering well from the hamstring tightness he experienced against Adelaide. He trained solidly over the weekend and is expected to be available this weekend,” Swans head physio Damian Raper mentioned.
“Justin has now completed a month of rehabilitation from a calf strain and has returned to full training … he will be a test to play Carlton.”
Source: www.news.com.au
