McGuane has been arguably the Lions’ most potent forward in the two pre-season practice matches he’s played, booting three goals against Gold Coast and two last week against the Swans.
But Physical Performance Manager Brett Burton revealed on LIONS TV that McGuane had suffered a recurrence of a knee injury that had kept him sidelined for the start of the pre-season.
Although he doesn't appear on the Club's official injury list, Burton said he'll be closely monitored over the next 10 days in the lead-up to Round One.
“Luke McGuane’s had some knee issues over the past couple of years and he just aggravated that knee (against the Swans),” Burton said as part of the Bupa Recovery Report.
“We’ll have to suck it and see how that pans out over the next week or two.”
Beams remains the most serious ‘fresh’ injury concern for the Lions, and is expected to miss a couple more months or football after scans on Monday revealed a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his left foot.
“Beamsy had surgery and had a screw put in that bone and that will take around eight weeks,” Burton said.
“It’s unfortunate for him because it was only his second game back from a knee reconstruction.
“He’s very unlucky, but is in good spirits this morning. He’s back home resting now. We’ll get him back involved in a training environment next week.”
Meanwhile, potential return dates for both Brent Staker and Ash McGrath have been extended as both struggle to overcome calf complaints.
“Stakes and Ash are a little way off yet,” Burton said.
“Staker is probably around the Round 5 or 6 mark, and Ash (should return) around Round 3 or 4.”
The Lions' Round One opponent, Hawthorn, have had their own injury troubles, effectively ruling out veteran midfielder Brad Sewell and defender Ben Startton for the season opener in Tassie.
The Hawks will also be without Cyril Rioli and Norm Smith Medallist Brian Lake, who will serve suspensions from last year's Grand Final triumph.
