Darcy Gardiner will undergo a fitness test at training this morning to be cleared to play against Collingwood on Saturday night.

The rugged defender has not played since undergoing surgery to repair a shoulder injury suffered in the 73-point QClash demolition of the Suns in round nine.

However, he has proven to be capable of returning straight to senior action without lead-up games at the lower level.

Gardiner was a late scratching from last year's preliminary final loss to Geelong with a knee injury that hindered him right through pre-season.

He played his first game in round four against the Western Bulldogs with no match play under his belt, six months after last lining up in a qualifying final against Richmond.

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Brilliant third quarter soured by Gardiner injury.

Darcy Gardiner was been taken off the field after sustaining a shoulder injury.

Mitch Robinson will also be tested after subbing out of the 64-point win over Fremantle with a tight calf.

Key defender Marcus Adams is progressing well from stress reaction in his foot and is expected to be available to play in round 23.

Brownlow medalist Lachie Neale is expected to return after missing last week’s game with gastro.