The Brisbane Lions boast a relatively fit and healthy list as the head into their Round One clash against Hawthorn in Tasmania this Saturday, with only four of the Club’s 46 players – Brent Staker (calf), Ash McGrath (calf), Claye Beams (foot) and Stefan Martin (back) – currently ruled out. 

McGrath and Martin are both expected back within the first month of the season, while Staker and Beams are both approximately 6-7 weeks away from action.

Luke McGuane is the only other injury concern for the Lions, with the Richmond recruit battling knee soreness following the team’s final pre-season hitout against Sydney.

McGuane, however, is still considered a chance to line up on Saturday against the Hawks.

“The list is in pretty good shape heading into Round One, with only Staker, Martin, Beams, and McGrath definite non-starters at this stage,” Physical Performance Manager Brett Burton told lions.com.au.

“We’re still monitoring Luke McGuane’s knee after he pulled up sore from the Swans game. We’ll see how he’s travelling after our next session before making a decision on whether he’ll face the Hawks.”

Darcy Gardiner, meanwhile, is back in full training having recovered from a foot complaint which hampered most of his pre-season.

Gardiner, who was the Lions’ second selection at last year’s AFL National Draft (Pick No.22 overall), will now set his sights on regaining match fitness through the NEAFL.

“Everyone else is fit and healthy, and looking forward to getting into the season proper,” Burton said.

See the Lions' full injury list at the Bupa Health Centre