Reinforcements are on the way for Senior Coach Chris Fagan with a host of players facing fitness tests this week ahead of a possible return to action.

Brownlow medalist Lachie Neale missed the Lions’ comprehensive 52-point victory over the Crows in Adelaide with a minor calf issue but is expected to be available for Saturday’s clash with St Kilda.

Neale trained in Melbourne on Saturday and will be available for selection if he can get through the main session this week.

Reliable defender Ryan Lester is also on track to return from the hamstring injury that has kept him out of action since the round 12 loss to Melbourne.

Lester has been training strongly and also has just one more session to get through to be declared ready to play.

James Madden underwent surgery on an injured finger last week. His running has barely been interrupted and will also come into calculations if he can train without too much discomfort this week.

Vice-captain Harris Andrews was sent for scans following the Crows game after suffering a heavy knock on bis knee.

High Performance Manager Damien Austin said there was no structural damage detected and he remained firm chance to take his place against the Saints.

“He played out the game which is a good sign, so we will just see how he progresses during the week but we are optimistic he will be right to play,’’ he said.