THE LIONS are poised to regain a number of players ahead of their clash with the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Saturday night.
Elite Performance Manager Brett Burton told the Bupa Report today that the bye came at the right time for Brisbane.
“The bye provides an opportunity to train a few guys who have been in the rehab environment but also the opportunity for further rest.
“It was a good opportunity for a physical and mental break with the four days off.”
Jed Adcock, Jack Redden, Dan McStay, Ryan Harwood, Darcy Gardiner, Trent West and Brent Staker have all been listed on the Bupa Injury List as ‘tests’ and provided they get through main training tomorrow will be available to play at either senior or NEAFL level.
“Jed Adcock will be a test in the main training session tomorrow, so will Jack Redden”, Burton said.
Ruckman Trent West is set to make his return to football in his first match since round 11, 2014.
“We’re looking for him to come back in his first game in almost 12 months from his ACL, he’ll play in the NEAFL.
“We’ve also got Darcy Gardiner, Dan McStay and Ryan Harwood as well that will be looking for senior selection.”
Defender Dan Merrett has overcome previous hamstring injury setbacks, is running at maximum speed and is likely to play the next round in the NEAFL against the Gold Coast Suns.
“Dan’s going really well, he’s obviously been out since round two with that hamstring complication. He’s been moving along really well in rehab over the last couple of weeks.
“He ticked off top speed and trained with the main group yesterday for the first time. We’ll be looking for him to play either half a game for the Reserves next week or he’ll be back for a full game in Round 14.”
“Brent Staker’s another one. He’s been out for a while with that hamstring as well. He’s a bit like Dan, back with the main training group and we’ll make a decision later this week whether he plays reduced game time in the Reserves or if we hold him back next week to play a full game.”
See the full injury list at the BUPA Health Centre
