The Brisbane Lions are likely to regain defender Tom Cutler ahead of QClash 12 against the Gold Coast SUNS this weekend.
Cutler had minor hamstring damage, sustained in the Lions’ loss to the West Coast Eagles in Round 13.
The 21-year-old, who is enjoying a career-best season, has returned to main training.
He kicked two goals and collected 20 disposals against the SUNS in the Lions’ win in Round 4.
Meanwhile, trio Allen Christensen (wrist and collarbone), Tom Bell (knee) and Ryan Harwood (knee) are progressing well in their rehabilitation from injury.
“Allen started running this week on the AlterG. His shoulder fracture is improving, he’ll just now build up to the point where he is allowed to play,” Lions Head of Physiotherapy Shane Lemcke said.
In a blow to the Lions’ backline, scans confirmed in June that backman Ryan Harwood had strained his posterior cruciate ligament requiring him to wear a brace for six weeks.
“Ryan is only a couple of weeks into wearing his brace so he’s got a fair while to let that ligament heal and then he’ll start getting into his rehab proper.”
Bell had surgery in late June to repair a medial meniscus tear, with the Club conceding the 25-year-old will miss the remainder of the season.
“Tom’s now a couple of weeks post-surgery. He’s recovering really well so he’ll move into a strength phase and then get back running as soon as he can.”
Lions Health Centre: Injury List
Lemcke said the Lions’ Round 15 bye week came at a good time, allowing the players to refresh and prepare for the second half of the season.
“They pulled up pretty well from the break. Obviously with four days off, they’re a lot fresher and ready to go for training this week.
“Hopefully they’ll hit the Gold Coast hard on the weekend.
“AFL is a tough game and the week in, week out stress mentally as well as physically on the players is really tough so to get a break is important.
“Obviously our break was a bit later this year and it’s fair to say the boys were ready for it by Round 15.”
Archie Smith (concussion) and Nick Robertson (knee) and Jackson Paine (ankle) should also return while Jonathan Freeman (toe) is expected to spend another week on the sideline.
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