2015: Pre-Season Injury Status Updates
- Thread starter PC
- Start date
- Status
Double injury blow for star Suns
Michael Whiting November 24, 2014 5:35 PM
GOLD Coast vice-captain Dion Prestia and silky midfielder Harley Bennell have limped off the training track on Monday with injuries. Prestia came off first with a hamstring problem, while Bennell limped off shortly afterwards with a calf complaint. Both players will be scanned in the next 48 hours after the swelling has subsided to determine the severity of the injuries.
Hamstring problems plagued Prestia early in his career but he has played 42 of a possible 44 games over the past two seasons. While the extent of his injury is unknown, Suns football manager Marcus Ashcroft said Bennell's scan was more precautionary. "We are confident he will only miss a few sessions," Ashcroft said.
Earlier in the session, Bennell won a 2km time-trial – the same test Prestia took out on the opening day of training earlier this month.
Michael Whiting November 24, 2014 5:35 PM
GOLD Coast vice-captain Dion Prestia and silky midfielder Harley Bennell have limped off the training track on Monday with injuries. Prestia came off first with a hamstring problem, while Bennell limped off shortly afterwards with a calf complaint. Both players will be scanned in the next 48 hours after the swelling has subsided to determine the severity of the injuries.
Hamstring problems plagued Prestia early in his career but he has played 42 of a possible 44 games over the past two seasons. While the extent of his injury is unknown, Suns football manager Marcus Ashcroft said Bennell's scan was more precautionary. "We are confident he will only miss a few sessions," Ashcroft said.
Earlier in the session, Bennell won a 2km time-trial – the same test Prestia took out on the opening day of training earlier this month.
Shoulder surgery for injured Docker Fyfe
Alex Malcolm November 24, 2014 7:22 PM
FREMANTLE star Nat Fyfe requires minor surgery on his injured right shoulder but it is not anticipated to impact his pre-season. The two-time reigning Dockers best and fairest and 2014 AFL Players' Association MVP hurt his right shoulder attempting a mark in an International Rules practice match in Western Sydney last Tuesday. Fyfe was due to represent Australia in the Virgin Australia International Rules Test at Paterson Stadium on Saturday but he was withdrawn after scans last Wednesday revealed he had strained his AC joint.
Fremantle sent the 23-year-old to a specialist for further assessment last week and the club was advised on Monday that Fyfe required minor surgery on the joint. The midfielder will have the minor procedure later this week.
Fyfe had surgery on his left shoulder twice in 2011 and 2012 although the nature of this injury is significantly different.
Alex Malcolm November 24, 2014 7:22 PM
FREMANTLE star Nat Fyfe requires minor surgery on his injured right shoulder but it is not anticipated to impact his pre-season. The two-time reigning Dockers best and fairest and 2014 AFL Players' Association MVP hurt his right shoulder attempting a mark in an International Rules practice match in Western Sydney last Tuesday. Fyfe was due to represent Australia in the Virgin Australia International Rules Test at Paterson Stadium on Saturday but he was withdrawn after scans last Wednesday revealed he had strained his AC joint.
Fremantle sent the 23-year-old to a specialist for further assessment last week and the club was advised on Monday that Fyfe required minor surgery on the joint. The midfielder will have the minor procedure later this week.
Fyfe had surgery on his left shoulder twice in 2011 and 2012 although the nature of this injury is significantly different.
This article from 2 days ago puts him in the bargain list, seems very odd if he's unlikely to play in 2015.
link to the article
link to the article
- Joined
- 8 Jan 2014
- Messages
- 6,968
- Likes
- 11,084
- AFL Club
- Melbourne
Re Trengove: Comment from Demonland training forum on Mon 15 Dec:
"If anyone has instagram go have a look at Jack Trengove recent pick of his leg out of the cask. I feel we will be lucky to see him pull on the jumper for 2015."
Also, Instagram link showing Trengoves leg: http://instagram.com...e_j/?modal=true
This link shows a picture of Trengove at traning recently. There seems to be some differning opinions as to how quickly he can regain his fitness, but I'm not sure I would be backing him in for Round 1
http://demonland.com/forums/index.php?/topic/37771-who-has-the-better-scooter-trenners-or-saty/
Sorry for posting the link instead of the photo as I don't know how to post pictures.
"If anyone has instagram go have a look at Jack Trengove recent pick of his leg out of the cask. I feel we will be lucky to see him pull on the jumper for 2015."
Also, Instagram link showing Trengoves leg: http://instagram.com...e_j/?modal=true
This link shows a picture of Trengove at traning recently. There seems to be some differning opinions as to how quickly he can regain his fitness, but I'm not sure I would be backing him in for Round 1
http://demonland.com/forums/index.php?/topic/37771-who-has-the-better-scooter-trenners-or-saty/
Sorry for posting the link instead of the photo as I don't know how to post pictures.
Last edited:
Probably not in anyone's team, but one to stuff into the brain bank - and with the season so far off, it is certainly almost inconsequential! 
Surgery for Crows midfielder after ankle injury
Nat Edwards January 6, 2015 1:00 PM
EMERGING Adelaide midfielder Matt Crouch's preparations for next season have suffered a setback after he had surgery on his ankle. The 19-year-old fell awkwardly during a training drill before Christmas, sustaining ligament damage in his left ankle. He required surgery and will wear a moon boot for the next three weeks. Crouch will now begin a rehabilitation program after consultation with a specialist on Monday and is expected to resume training in a few weeks. "It is unfortunate, as Matt was relishing the hard work in the lead up to the Christmas break," Crows head of football David Noble told AFC.com.au. "He was able to build a solid fitness base and we look forward to having him back as soon as possible."
Crouch, the younger brother of fellow midfielder Brad, was recruited by the Crows at pick No.23 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft and played eight games in his debut season last year. He received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round five after gathering a career-best 28 disposals and 10 marks in the Crows' win over GWS.
Surgery for Crows midfielder after ankle injury
Nat Edwards January 6, 2015 1:00 PM
EMERGING Adelaide midfielder Matt Crouch's preparations for next season have suffered a setback after he had surgery on his ankle. The 19-year-old fell awkwardly during a training drill before Christmas, sustaining ligament damage in his left ankle. He required surgery and will wear a moon boot for the next three weeks. Crouch will now begin a rehabilitation program after consultation with a specialist on Monday and is expected to resume training in a few weeks. "It is unfortunate, as Matt was relishing the hard work in the lead up to the Christmas break," Crows head of football David Noble told AFC.com.au. "He was able to build a solid fitness base and we look forward to having him back as soon as possible."
Crouch, the younger brother of fellow midfielder Brad, was recruited by the Crows at pick No.23 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft and played eight games in his debut season last year. He received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in round five after gathering a career-best 28 disposals and 10 marks in the Crows' win over GWS.
Big Mac's return boosts West Coast as Eagles sweat it out
Travis King January 5, 2015 6:49 PM
WEST Coast's players received a timely boost as they sweltered through oppressive conditions on Monday, with reigning club champion Eric Mackenzie joining his teammates in the main squad for the first time this pre-season. Mackenzie emerged unscathed through the testing 90-minute session at McGillvray Oval, in a positive sign following post-season hip surgery.
It was a punishing return to action for the Eagles after the Christmas break, with Perth's temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels. The mercury hovered above 44 degrees in mid-afternoon – the hottest January day in 24 years - after it had peaked at about 40 degrees as the Eagles wound up their morning session. Aside from full-back Mackenzie, there was more good news on the injury front with Matt Rosa (torn pectoral) also joining the main group for part of the session.
Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Sharrod Wellingham (knee) is expected to be back in full training this week and tough defender Beau Waters is continuing his progress from multiple shoulder setbacks. Although the Eagles' injury list is beginning to dwindle, a host of key players remain on modified programs. Ruckman Callum Sinclair (broken finger), Elliot Yeo (hand) and Jeremy McGovern (hip) continued their recovery programs, while Scott Selwood (foot) and Jack Darling (foot) only walked laps.
With the 2015 season looming, new captain Shannon Hurn told The West Australian that West Coast's gruelling pre-season regime would be crucial to the side's hopes of returning to the finals this year. The Eagles finished ninth last season but failed to beat any of the top-eight teams. "Footy nowadays is more about, through pre-season, training under fatigue and being able to make decisions under fatigue," Hurn said. "You watch all those finals games and it will always be the case forever - the team that can do the basics and can make the best decisions at the right times when you're tired and towards the end of the game, I reckon they are the ones who will win the majority of the time. "That's what we've been working on and I think we've been going quite well. It's about who doesn't really lose their nerve. "If you have a group of players who are cool and calm when the heat is on, I think you're a good chance of winning. "It would be disappointing if we didn't (play finals) because our core group is a very good group. I certainly believe that we can."
Travis King January 5, 2015 6:49 PM
WEST Coast's players received a timely boost as they sweltered through oppressive conditions on Monday, with reigning club champion Eric Mackenzie joining his teammates in the main squad for the first time this pre-season. Mackenzie emerged unscathed through the testing 90-minute session at McGillvray Oval, in a positive sign following post-season hip surgery.
It was a punishing return to action for the Eagles after the Christmas break, with Perth's temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels. The mercury hovered above 44 degrees in mid-afternoon – the hottest January day in 24 years - after it had peaked at about 40 degrees as the Eagles wound up their morning session. Aside from full-back Mackenzie, there was more good news on the injury front with Matt Rosa (torn pectoral) also joining the main group for part of the session.
Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Sharrod Wellingham (knee) is expected to be back in full training this week and tough defender Beau Waters is continuing his progress from multiple shoulder setbacks. Although the Eagles' injury list is beginning to dwindle, a host of key players remain on modified programs. Ruckman Callum Sinclair (broken finger), Elliot Yeo (hand) and Jeremy McGovern (hip) continued their recovery programs, while Scott Selwood (foot) and Jack Darling (foot) only walked laps.
With the 2015 season looming, new captain Shannon Hurn told The West Australian that West Coast's gruelling pre-season regime would be crucial to the side's hopes of returning to the finals this year. The Eagles finished ninth last season but failed to beat any of the top-eight teams. "Footy nowadays is more about, through pre-season, training under fatigue and being able to make decisions under fatigue," Hurn said. "You watch all those finals games and it will always be the case forever - the team that can do the basics and can make the best decisions at the right times when you're tired and towards the end of the game, I reckon they are the ones who will win the majority of the time. "That's what we've been working on and I think we've been going quite well. It's about who doesn't really lose their nerve. "If you have a group of players who are cool and calm when the heat is on, I think you're a good chance of winning. "It would be disappointing if we didn't (play finals) because our core group is a very good group. I certainly believe that we can."
- Joined
- 24 Apr 2013
- Messages
- 11,173
- Likes
- 13,044
- AFL Club
- Carlton
Not sure if anyone was looking at him but Matt Crouch just had surgery...
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-06/crow-midfielder-in-moon-boot
http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-06/crow-midfielder-in-moon-boot
Thanks to Junior Wölf for posting the link in another thread - I have snipped all the interesting bits out and posted below
Original link - http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...red-at-your-club/story-fni5f22o-1227179370050
ADELAIDE
One man forced to watch on from the sidelines was young midfielder Matt Crouch. He underwent surgery late last year to fix an ankle problem suffered just before the Crows adjourned for their holiday.
BRISBANE LIONS
The new recruits are settling in, but it remains unclear whether Allen Christensen will be ready for Round 1 despite him making steady progress from his back problems.
CARLTON
No injuries reported.
COLLINGWOOD
The big news has come in recent days with the Pies revealing that they had sent Ben Reid, who injured his “good” calf at training in December, to Germany to undergo treatment. The injury curse struck again when boom father-son recruit Darcy Moore injured his big toe and will be forced to wear a moon boot for three weeks. Alan Toovey has also injured his calf and will be on a modified program for two weeks. Dane Swan had hip surgery following last season and will resume full training in February. He hopes to return to his best after giving himself a less-than-complimentary appraisal of his own form in 2014. Knee victims Brent Macaffer and Matt Scharenberg are on long-term schedules with Macaffer aiming for a return in April or May.
ESSENDON
The Bombers don’t have too many injury concerns although Heath Hocking is sidelined with a groin after having surgery.
FREMANTLE
There were concerns for Nat Fyfe when he injured a shoulder at International Rules training. He did require surgery, but will be back into full contact work in coming weeks after completing his recovery.
GEELONG
A couple of promising youngsters have been laid low over the break. Jackson Thurlow suffered a lacerate kidney and is still some time off resuming training as he recovers at home in Tasmania. Meanwhile, small forward Lincoln McCarthy has developed a stress reaction in his left foot and needs to rest.
GOLD COAST
Young gun Jaeger O’Meara had surgery on both knees in Europe, a procedure the club hopes will extend his career significantly. Ablett is back in training after shoulder surgery ended his 2014. Andrew Raines has suffered a pre-season blow, damaging the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
GWS
Lachie Plowman is facing 12 weeks on the sidelines after dislocating his elbow at training. Small forward Liam Sumner looks likely to miss the start of the season proper due to a navicular stress fracture in his right foot, while James Stewart – who dealt with a bout of glandular fever – is working towards full fitness. Jeremy Finlayson (hip) is set to start full training next month, while Zac Williams (ankle) is also close to joining the main group at training.
HAWTHORN
Matthew Suckling had post-season surgery to clean up his knee after making his return from a knee reconstruction in 2014.
MELBOURNE
However, the news isn’t good for Jack Trengove who had another setback with his troublesome foot, which scuppered a reported trade to Richmond. Dom Tyson, Bernie Vince, Max Gawn and Dean Terlich have been limited after post-season surgeries.
NORTH MELBOURNE
Tall forwards Drew Petrie, Ben Brown and Aaron Black are all working back into training after recovering from injuries. Brown is expected to return to full training shortly after post-season knee surgery while Jack Ziebell and Black had shoulder clean-ups.
PORT ADELAIDE
No injuries reported.
RICHMOND
The Tigers pre-season got off to a bad start when top draft pick Corey Ellis underwent foot surgery. The Tigers said they knew about the issue when they drafted him and expected the midfielder to return to training shortly.
ST KILDA
A trip to New Zealand before Christmas was hailed a big success with several players impressing but Arryn Siposs was sent home after injuring his shoulder.
SYDNEY SWANS
Senior players Adam Goodes, Mike Pyke, Sam Reid and Craig Bird are all on target for a full pre-season after interrupted programs before the Christmas break.
WEST COAST
Reigning best and fairest Eric Mackenzie is back in training after hip surgery limited his training before Christmas while Jack Darling has been walking laps at training after a foot injury left him on crutches and in a moon boot for three months.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
Boom recruit Tom Boyd has barely seen the training track this pre-season after having his appendix removed shortly after his arrival at Whitten Oval and then dislocating a finger after the Christmas break. Clay Smith is recovering well from a knee reconstruction while Jordan Roughead is on track for Round 1 after shoulder surgery. The Bulldogs boast a relatively healthy list, with Matt Fuller returning to full training after Christmas following shoulder surgery. Midfielders Mitch Honeychurch, Koby Stevens and Nathan Hrovat were also absent from the main training group, with all three on modified training.
Original link - http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...red-at-your-club/story-fni5f22o-1227179370050
ADELAIDE
One man forced to watch on from the sidelines was young midfielder Matt Crouch. He underwent surgery late last year to fix an ankle problem suffered just before the Crows adjourned for their holiday.
BRISBANE LIONS
The new recruits are settling in, but it remains unclear whether Allen Christensen will be ready for Round 1 despite him making steady progress from his back problems.
CARLTON
No injuries reported.
COLLINGWOOD
The big news has come in recent days with the Pies revealing that they had sent Ben Reid, who injured his “good” calf at training in December, to Germany to undergo treatment. The injury curse struck again when boom father-son recruit Darcy Moore injured his big toe and will be forced to wear a moon boot for three weeks. Alan Toovey has also injured his calf and will be on a modified program for two weeks. Dane Swan had hip surgery following last season and will resume full training in February. He hopes to return to his best after giving himself a less-than-complimentary appraisal of his own form in 2014. Knee victims Brent Macaffer and Matt Scharenberg are on long-term schedules with Macaffer aiming for a return in April or May.
ESSENDON
The Bombers don’t have too many injury concerns although Heath Hocking is sidelined with a groin after having surgery.
FREMANTLE
There were concerns for Nat Fyfe when he injured a shoulder at International Rules training. He did require surgery, but will be back into full contact work in coming weeks after completing his recovery.
GEELONG
A couple of promising youngsters have been laid low over the break. Jackson Thurlow suffered a lacerate kidney and is still some time off resuming training as he recovers at home in Tasmania. Meanwhile, small forward Lincoln McCarthy has developed a stress reaction in his left foot and needs to rest.
GOLD COAST
Young gun Jaeger O’Meara had surgery on both knees in Europe, a procedure the club hopes will extend his career significantly. Ablett is back in training after shoulder surgery ended his 2014. Andrew Raines has suffered a pre-season blow, damaging the posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
GWS
Lachie Plowman is facing 12 weeks on the sidelines after dislocating his elbow at training. Small forward Liam Sumner looks likely to miss the start of the season proper due to a navicular stress fracture in his right foot, while James Stewart – who dealt with a bout of glandular fever – is working towards full fitness. Jeremy Finlayson (hip) is set to start full training next month, while Zac Williams (ankle) is also close to joining the main group at training.
HAWTHORN
Matthew Suckling had post-season surgery to clean up his knee after making his return from a knee reconstruction in 2014.
MELBOURNE
However, the news isn’t good for Jack Trengove who had another setback with his troublesome foot, which scuppered a reported trade to Richmond. Dom Tyson, Bernie Vince, Max Gawn and Dean Terlich have been limited after post-season surgeries.
NORTH MELBOURNE
Tall forwards Drew Petrie, Ben Brown and Aaron Black are all working back into training after recovering from injuries. Brown is expected to return to full training shortly after post-season knee surgery while Jack Ziebell and Black had shoulder clean-ups.
PORT ADELAIDE
No injuries reported.
RICHMOND
The Tigers pre-season got off to a bad start when top draft pick Corey Ellis underwent foot surgery. The Tigers said they knew about the issue when they drafted him and expected the midfielder to return to training shortly.
ST KILDA
A trip to New Zealand before Christmas was hailed a big success with several players impressing but Arryn Siposs was sent home after injuring his shoulder.
SYDNEY SWANS
Senior players Adam Goodes, Mike Pyke, Sam Reid and Craig Bird are all on target for a full pre-season after interrupted programs before the Christmas break.
WEST COAST
Reigning best and fairest Eric Mackenzie is back in training after hip surgery limited his training before Christmas while Jack Darling has been walking laps at training after a foot injury left him on crutches and in a moon boot for three months.
WESTERN BULLDOGS
Boom recruit Tom Boyd has barely seen the training track this pre-season after having his appendix removed shortly after his arrival at Whitten Oval and then dislocating a finger after the Christmas break. Clay Smith is recovering well from a knee reconstruction while Jordan Roughead is on track for Round 1 after shoulder surgery. The Bulldogs boast a relatively healthy list, with Matt Fuller returning to full training after Christmas following shoulder surgery. Midfielders Mitch Honeychurch, Koby Stevens and Nathan Hrovat were also absent from the main training group, with all three on modified training.
Last edited:
- Joined
- 24 Apr 2013
- Messages
- 11,173
- Likes
- 13,044
- AFL Club
- Carlton
Thanks to Junior Wölf for posting the link in another thread - I have snipped all the interesting bits out and posted below
Original link - http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...red-at-your-club/story-fni5f22o-1227179370050
CARLTON
No injuries reported.
Original link - http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...red-at-your-club/story-fni5f22o-1227179370050
CARLTON
No injuries reported.
Some of the same, but also further information given in the link/post below. Looks like the sawbones were busy in the off-season!
Link - http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-10/your-clubs-returners
Your club's returners: Which players are coming back from injury in 2015?
Nat Edwards, Travis King, Ben Guthrie and Michael Whiting January 10, 2015 8:00 AM
ADELAIDE
After missing the entire 2014 season with a ruptured Achilles tendon, Nathan Van Berlo is itching to return in 2015. It has been a long road for the Crows skipper, who resumed running in July last year, but it hasn't taken him long to regain fitness. The 28-year-old claimed honours in the club's first 2km time trial of the pre-season in November last year, and was just edged out on Monday by Sam Kerridge in the Crow's first post-Christmas training session. Defender Andy Otten isn't expected to play this season after rupturing his ACL in August last year, while defender Sam Shaw had hamstring surgery in the off-season and isn't expected to resume full training until the end of March. – Nat Edwards
BRISBANE LIONS
After missing all-but three matches last season, Daniel Rich is recovering strongly from the ACL surgery to his left knee. The lethal left footer is back to full fitness and has been integrated into most of the Lions' full team drills. He is expected to play pre-season matches and be available for round 1. Ruckman Matthew Leuenberger also missed a majority of 2014 with a meniscus injury, and the club has decided to modify his training. Leuenberger is 100 per cent healthy though and everything being equal, will play pre-season matches. Versatile Brent Staker (calf) is in the same boat after missing all of last season, but has trained strongly so far, and along with midfielder Jack Redden (ankle), who missed the back end of the year, should also be fully fit for the beginning of the NAB Challenge. Star recruit Allen Christensen still has a slight question mark over him after undergoing back surgery. Christensen has made good progress and is hopeful of being available for the opening round of the season. Trent West is recovering well following surgery for his ruptured ACL, but is not expected to play until midway through the season. – Michael Whiting
CARLTON
A rejuvenated Matthew Kreuzer will be like a new recruit for the Blues in 2015. The injury-plagued ruckman managed just one game, the opening round, last season before being sidelined with a foot injury. But since returning to full training, the big man has set the track alight. Kreuzer was named trainer of the week just before the Christmas break and is expected to play in the NAB Challenge. Meanwhile former Giant Kristian Jaksch resumed running just before Christmas and is currently on a modified training program after being diagnosed with a stress reaction in the navicular bone in his left foot in mid-November. He is expected to rejoin the main group at the end of the January. The Blues are continuing to take a conservative approach with Cameron Giles as he recovers from a serious foot injury. – Nat Edwards
COLLINGWOOD
It's no surprise to see All Australian defender Ben Reid back on the injury list. The luckless big man had been a week out from resuming full training after playing just four games in 2014, when he injured his 'good' left calf in December. Reid has now been sent to Germany in search of answers to his ongoing soft-tissue problems. A return to training is unknown at this stage. Star midfielder Dane Swan is on a modified program and is continuing to regain fitness following hip surgery in the off-season. Tagger Brent Macaffer is still hopeful of a round one return following a knee reconstruction, while a more cautious approach will continue to be taken with youngster Matthew Scharenberg who also ruptured his ACL late last season. – Nat Edwards
ESSENDON
After an impressive debut season in 2013, utility Nick Kommer was forced to spend last year on the sidelines as he battled through a patella tendon injury. Eventually it was operated on and while the 24-year-old was back running in December, the club will continue to take a conservative approach with no timeframe set on a return to full training. Despite having surgery on his groin just before Christmas, Heath Hocking is still in contention to play round one. He will miss six weeks of pre-season training in 2015 but the club is hopeful he will be fit in time for the season proper. Meanwhile luckless Bomber Tayte Pears is set to increase his training load in January after Achilles surgery just before the end of last season. In some good news, ruckman Tom Bellchambers has returned to full training following a second ankle surgery in the off-season, while Alex Browne is set to be available for the NAB Challenge following a knee reconstruction in February last year. – Nat Edwards
FREMANTLE
AFLPA MVP Nat Fyfe was the big concern for Fremantle late last year with the star midfielder injuring his shoulder just before the International Rules series in November. He had a minor clean out on his AC joint and is due to return to full contact training in January. The same applies to Garrick Ibbotson and Max Duffy, who both had shoulder surgery in the off-season. Midfielder Colin Sylvia had an ankle clean out to relieve an impingement on his calf muscle and was on restricted duties before Christmas, while Anthony Morabito will continue to be nursed cautiously through the pre-season after injuring his knee in September. – Nat Edwards
GEELONG
The Cats are optimistic both Daniel Menzel and Nathan Vardy can have an impact in 2015. Menzel is cautiously targeting an early season return from his fourth knee reconstruction, while Vardy – who tore his ACL in February last year – is on track for a NAB Challenge berth. Ruckmen Dawson Simpson (back)and Hamish McIntosh (knee) both had operations at the end of last year and have been eased through this pre-season. Young forward Shane Kersten also had minor knee surgery at the start of the off-season and has also been managed carefully so far this summer. Lincoln McCarthy is out indefinitely with a flaring foot issue, while Jackson Thurlow – who lacerated his kidney at training at the end of 2014 – should be right to go at the start of the season. – Ben Guthrie
GOLD COAST
It's good news for captain Gary Ablett who is progressing strongly following surgery to the left shoulder he dislocated against Collingwood in round 16. The dual Brownlow medalist is back to running at 95 per cent capacity and is expected to resume contact work in the new year. Ablett had nursed his shoulder through the early part of pre-season, but prior to the Christmas break, was taking part in a number of team ball movement drills. Ruckmen Tom Nicholls (knee and calf) and Zac Smith (ankle surgery) started behind the eight-ball but are now doing well. Nicholls did his first 2km time trial just before the break and will rejoin the main group in the New Year, while Smith is already back in the main group. Jaeger O'Meara has no timeframe on his progression following surgery to both knees in November, but the Suns are confident he will be available come round 1. New recruit Mitch Hallahan had ankle surgery in the off-season and has now taken part in his first skills session, which should progress quickly when training resumes. Small forwards Aaron Hall and Brandon Matera both had groin surgery, with Hall a long-term proposition who has no timeframe for return, while Matera is hopeful of ramping up his rehab in the coming months to be available for pre-season matches. – Michael Whiting
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
Key forward Jonathon Patton and big defender Tim Mohr are on similar timelines as they recover from knee reconstructions. Patton's knee has healed superbly since he went under the knife in August and he was back running outside in November, after previously being restricted to the treadmill and gym sessions. The 21-year-old went down in round 21 against Melbourne and, wary of returning to soon from his second reconstruction, an exact date hasn't been established for his return to action. Ditto for Mohr, who suffered his knee injury in July. Liam Sumner is the other Giant expected to miss the start of 2015 due to a navicular stress fracture in his right foot, sustained last month. Sumner will be in a moon boot until at least the end of January. – Travis King
HAWTHORN
Luckless utility Brendan Whitecross is on track for a return to action early next season, most likely at VFL level, as he continues his recovery from a second knee reconstruction. Whitecross suffered the injury in the 2013 preliminary final and was pushing to return late last season before his rehabilitation stalled slightly. He was ruled out for the remainder of the Hawks' campaign in July, with the club opting to take a safety-first approach. The 24-year-old is now champing at the bit to make his comeback, having completed a solid training block in the lead-up to Christmas. Talented midfielder Jed Anderson, who has been back in full training mode since day one of pre-season, has set his sights on playing round one. Anderson failed to play a senior game in 2014 due to a left shoulder injury suffered in March, which required season-ending surgery. He was back running while his teammates prepared for finals and was given the all-clear to join in full-contact drills when pre-season kicked off. – Travis King
MELBOURNE
Melbourne enters 2015 boasting a relatively clean bill of health, but how dearly the Demons must be wishing for midfielder Jack Trengove to finally overcome his navicular problems and Jesse Hogan to get a clear run at the big time. Trengove re-aggravated the left foot injury in October, just weeks after he resumed running outdoors. The 23-year-old only played the first two matches last season and a timeline for his return to action remains up in the air. Trengove is adamant he will be back playing AFL again, however he has admitted next season could be a write-off, depending how the injury heals, and he won't rush his comeback. Meanwhile, Hogan has excited Dees supporters with his pre-season training efforts after he missed all of last season due to a back injury. Hogan's strong running and competitive instinct have made him a standout on the track, with Melbourne fans hoping the hyped key forward is fit to make his long-awaited debut in round one. – Travis King
NORTH MELBOURNE
Injury-plagued Robbie Tarrant is being handled with kid gloves as he makes his way back from leg surgery. Tarrant only played one AFL and one VFL match last season before he was diagnosed with a tibia stress reaction. The talented 196cm big man moved well at pre-season training in mid-December, stretching out close to top gear in straight-line running exercises away from the main group. He has moved onto lateral movement drills now the Roos have returned from their Christmas break. Key defender Joel Tippett beefed up by six kilograms during the post-season break in his bid to nail down a spot in North's best 22. The recently elevated rookie tore his pectoral against Geelong in round 10 and fell just short of returning for the preliminary final loss, but is set to pick up where he left off. Meanwhile, first-round draft pick Taylor Garner has progressed to high intensity straight-line running following hip surgery. Garner's 2014 was ruined by repeat hamstring injuries, with the decision made in August to cut his season short without him playing an AFL match. The 21-year-old has been running since pre-season kicked-off in November and is on track to be available for round one barring any setbacks. – Travis King
PORT ADELAIDE
Perhaps it is testament to the Powers' elite conditioning – combined with a healthy slice of good fortune – that the club had very few long-term injury concerns heading into another gruelling pre-season. Five players went under the surgeon's knife at the end of the last campaign – Angus Monfries (hip), Brad Ebert (shoulder), Jay Schulz (shoulder), Aaron Young (shoulder) and Matt White (groin) – but all were back in action for a return to summer training. The Power ramped up its pre-Christmas training to even higher levels than the previous two seasons under fitness guru Darren Burgess when they travelled to Dubai, and Ken Hinkley's men are in top shape early in the New Year as they eye an assault on the 2015 flag. – Travis King
RICHMOND
Important defender David Astbury will be a welcome addition for the Tigers next season after a dislocated kneecap ended his 2014 campaign prematurely in round nine. Astbury returned to play one VFL match at the end of last year and is in the midst of a full summer program. The 195cm backman was one of Richmond's only injury concerns towards the end of last year, although Matt Thomas (knee) is yet to rejoin the main group after post-season surgery. – Travis King
ST KILDA
The Saints had an extensive injury list at the end of the 2014 season, but that list has diminished significantly. Shane Savage (arm), Eli Templeton (arm), Jarryn Geary (calf), Tom Lee (shoulder), Jack Billings (hamstring), Blake Acres (quad), Daniel Markworth (hamstring), Luke Delaney (hip surgery), Jimmy Webster (foot fractures), Josh Bruce (shin surgery), Tom Curren (groin surgery) and Luke Dunstan (shoulder) are all back in full training. Arryn Siposs is still six weeks away from starting his rehab after re-injuring his shoulder in December. Tom Hickey (knee) is four to six weeks away from joining in full training, while Sam Gilbert (foot) is aiming to be available for round one. Brodie Murdoch (back) is on a modified program, while Jack Lonie (ankle) will resume training in late January. – Ben Guthrie
SYDNEY SWANS
A number of senior Swans have upped the ante in their pre-season campaigns after rejoining full training after the Christmas break. Adam Goodes (knee), Mike Pyke (knee), Sam Reid (knee) and Craig Bird (knee) have all returned to the training track after limited preparations following off-season surgeries. Reid, in particular, impressed in the Swans' 3km time trial on Monday. Ruckman Tom Derickx has also not missed a beat after returning to training in November. Derickx, who managed 12 games in his first season with the Swans in 2014, suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in July last year but is well on his way to being fit to start this season. Star forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett have also increased their workloads since starting back at training on Monday. In good news for the Swans, youngster Lloyd Perris is making some strong progress in his return from a torn ACL early last season. – Ben Guthrie
WEST COAST
Eagles best and fairest winner Eric Mackenzie has returned to training in top nick following post-season hip surgery. The gun backman posted a blistering time in the club's 2km time trail on Monday in stifling conditions. Mark LeCras, who had a plate removed from his twice fractured arm, is also back in full training and appears to be in top shape. Matt Rosa (torn pec)and Xavier Ellis remain in the rehab group, but both have made steady progress and are on track for the start of the season. Star backman Beau Waters (shoulder) has been impressive at training, while Nic Naitanui (groins)showed in the recent International Rules Series that he is fit and firing. Sharrod Wellingham (knee)and Brad Sheppard (ankle) are back in full training, while Jeremy McGovern (hip) is due back to full training by the end of January. Callum Sinclair (finger) and Elliot Yeo (hand) are both training away from the main group, with Yeo expected back in full training in February. Scott Selwood (ankle)and Jack Darling (foot) have been restricted to light duties, with Darling awaiting the results of scans after spending time in a moonboot. – Ben Guthrie
WESTERN BULLDOGS
The Bulldogs' most expensive recruit Tom Boyd was confined to running laps in early December after a bout of appendicitis in his first week at the club. He returned to full training after the Christmas break, only to dislocate a finger in his right hand on Thursday. A minor setback that shouldn't see him miss much football if any. Defenders Fletcher Roberts and Jordan Roughead have resumed full training after shoulder reconstructions at the end of last season, while Matt Fuller has also returned to full contact training. The only long-term prospect on the Dogs' injury list is Clay Smith. The midfielder ruptured the ACL in his right knee for a second time last season but is on track to return to competitive football mid-year after resuming running in November. – Nat Edwards
Link - http://www.afl.com.au/news/2015-01-10/your-clubs-returners
Your club's returners: Which players are coming back from injury in 2015?
Nat Edwards, Travis King, Ben Guthrie and Michael Whiting January 10, 2015 8:00 AM
ADELAIDE
After missing the entire 2014 season with a ruptured Achilles tendon, Nathan Van Berlo is itching to return in 2015. It has been a long road for the Crows skipper, who resumed running in July last year, but it hasn't taken him long to regain fitness. The 28-year-old claimed honours in the club's first 2km time trial of the pre-season in November last year, and was just edged out on Monday by Sam Kerridge in the Crow's first post-Christmas training session. Defender Andy Otten isn't expected to play this season after rupturing his ACL in August last year, while defender Sam Shaw had hamstring surgery in the off-season and isn't expected to resume full training until the end of March. – Nat Edwards
BRISBANE LIONS
After missing all-but three matches last season, Daniel Rich is recovering strongly from the ACL surgery to his left knee. The lethal left footer is back to full fitness and has been integrated into most of the Lions' full team drills. He is expected to play pre-season matches and be available for round 1. Ruckman Matthew Leuenberger also missed a majority of 2014 with a meniscus injury, and the club has decided to modify his training. Leuenberger is 100 per cent healthy though and everything being equal, will play pre-season matches. Versatile Brent Staker (calf) is in the same boat after missing all of last season, but has trained strongly so far, and along with midfielder Jack Redden (ankle), who missed the back end of the year, should also be fully fit for the beginning of the NAB Challenge. Star recruit Allen Christensen still has a slight question mark over him after undergoing back surgery. Christensen has made good progress and is hopeful of being available for the opening round of the season. Trent West is recovering well following surgery for his ruptured ACL, but is not expected to play until midway through the season. – Michael Whiting
CARLTON
A rejuvenated Matthew Kreuzer will be like a new recruit for the Blues in 2015. The injury-plagued ruckman managed just one game, the opening round, last season before being sidelined with a foot injury. But since returning to full training, the big man has set the track alight. Kreuzer was named trainer of the week just before the Christmas break and is expected to play in the NAB Challenge. Meanwhile former Giant Kristian Jaksch resumed running just before Christmas and is currently on a modified training program after being diagnosed with a stress reaction in the navicular bone in his left foot in mid-November. He is expected to rejoin the main group at the end of the January. The Blues are continuing to take a conservative approach with Cameron Giles as he recovers from a serious foot injury. – Nat Edwards
COLLINGWOOD
It's no surprise to see All Australian defender Ben Reid back on the injury list. The luckless big man had been a week out from resuming full training after playing just four games in 2014, when he injured his 'good' left calf in December. Reid has now been sent to Germany in search of answers to his ongoing soft-tissue problems. A return to training is unknown at this stage. Star midfielder Dane Swan is on a modified program and is continuing to regain fitness following hip surgery in the off-season. Tagger Brent Macaffer is still hopeful of a round one return following a knee reconstruction, while a more cautious approach will continue to be taken with youngster Matthew Scharenberg who also ruptured his ACL late last season. – Nat Edwards
ESSENDON
After an impressive debut season in 2013, utility Nick Kommer was forced to spend last year on the sidelines as he battled through a patella tendon injury. Eventually it was operated on and while the 24-year-old was back running in December, the club will continue to take a conservative approach with no timeframe set on a return to full training. Despite having surgery on his groin just before Christmas, Heath Hocking is still in contention to play round one. He will miss six weeks of pre-season training in 2015 but the club is hopeful he will be fit in time for the season proper. Meanwhile luckless Bomber Tayte Pears is set to increase his training load in January after Achilles surgery just before the end of last season. In some good news, ruckman Tom Bellchambers has returned to full training following a second ankle surgery in the off-season, while Alex Browne is set to be available for the NAB Challenge following a knee reconstruction in February last year. – Nat Edwards
FREMANTLE
AFLPA MVP Nat Fyfe was the big concern for Fremantle late last year with the star midfielder injuring his shoulder just before the International Rules series in November. He had a minor clean out on his AC joint and is due to return to full contact training in January. The same applies to Garrick Ibbotson and Max Duffy, who both had shoulder surgery in the off-season. Midfielder Colin Sylvia had an ankle clean out to relieve an impingement on his calf muscle and was on restricted duties before Christmas, while Anthony Morabito will continue to be nursed cautiously through the pre-season after injuring his knee in September. – Nat Edwards
GEELONG
The Cats are optimistic both Daniel Menzel and Nathan Vardy can have an impact in 2015. Menzel is cautiously targeting an early season return from his fourth knee reconstruction, while Vardy – who tore his ACL in February last year – is on track for a NAB Challenge berth. Ruckmen Dawson Simpson (back)and Hamish McIntosh (knee) both had operations at the end of last year and have been eased through this pre-season. Young forward Shane Kersten also had minor knee surgery at the start of the off-season and has also been managed carefully so far this summer. Lincoln McCarthy is out indefinitely with a flaring foot issue, while Jackson Thurlow – who lacerated his kidney at training at the end of 2014 – should be right to go at the start of the season. – Ben Guthrie
GOLD COAST
It's good news for captain Gary Ablett who is progressing strongly following surgery to the left shoulder he dislocated against Collingwood in round 16. The dual Brownlow medalist is back to running at 95 per cent capacity and is expected to resume contact work in the new year. Ablett had nursed his shoulder through the early part of pre-season, but prior to the Christmas break, was taking part in a number of team ball movement drills. Ruckmen Tom Nicholls (knee and calf) and Zac Smith (ankle surgery) started behind the eight-ball but are now doing well. Nicholls did his first 2km time trial just before the break and will rejoin the main group in the New Year, while Smith is already back in the main group. Jaeger O'Meara has no timeframe on his progression following surgery to both knees in November, but the Suns are confident he will be available come round 1. New recruit Mitch Hallahan had ankle surgery in the off-season and has now taken part in his first skills session, which should progress quickly when training resumes. Small forwards Aaron Hall and Brandon Matera both had groin surgery, with Hall a long-term proposition who has no timeframe for return, while Matera is hopeful of ramping up his rehab in the coming months to be available for pre-season matches. – Michael Whiting
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
Key forward Jonathon Patton and big defender Tim Mohr are on similar timelines as they recover from knee reconstructions. Patton's knee has healed superbly since he went under the knife in August and he was back running outside in November, after previously being restricted to the treadmill and gym sessions. The 21-year-old went down in round 21 against Melbourne and, wary of returning to soon from his second reconstruction, an exact date hasn't been established for his return to action. Ditto for Mohr, who suffered his knee injury in July. Liam Sumner is the other Giant expected to miss the start of 2015 due to a navicular stress fracture in his right foot, sustained last month. Sumner will be in a moon boot until at least the end of January. – Travis King
HAWTHORN
Luckless utility Brendan Whitecross is on track for a return to action early next season, most likely at VFL level, as he continues his recovery from a second knee reconstruction. Whitecross suffered the injury in the 2013 preliminary final and was pushing to return late last season before his rehabilitation stalled slightly. He was ruled out for the remainder of the Hawks' campaign in July, with the club opting to take a safety-first approach. The 24-year-old is now champing at the bit to make his comeback, having completed a solid training block in the lead-up to Christmas. Talented midfielder Jed Anderson, who has been back in full training mode since day one of pre-season, has set his sights on playing round one. Anderson failed to play a senior game in 2014 due to a left shoulder injury suffered in March, which required season-ending surgery. He was back running while his teammates prepared for finals and was given the all-clear to join in full-contact drills when pre-season kicked off. – Travis King
MELBOURNE
Melbourne enters 2015 boasting a relatively clean bill of health, but how dearly the Demons must be wishing for midfielder Jack Trengove to finally overcome his navicular problems and Jesse Hogan to get a clear run at the big time. Trengove re-aggravated the left foot injury in October, just weeks after he resumed running outdoors. The 23-year-old only played the first two matches last season and a timeline for his return to action remains up in the air. Trengove is adamant he will be back playing AFL again, however he has admitted next season could be a write-off, depending how the injury heals, and he won't rush his comeback. Meanwhile, Hogan has excited Dees supporters with his pre-season training efforts after he missed all of last season due to a back injury. Hogan's strong running and competitive instinct have made him a standout on the track, with Melbourne fans hoping the hyped key forward is fit to make his long-awaited debut in round one. – Travis King
NORTH MELBOURNE
Injury-plagued Robbie Tarrant is being handled with kid gloves as he makes his way back from leg surgery. Tarrant only played one AFL and one VFL match last season before he was diagnosed with a tibia stress reaction. The talented 196cm big man moved well at pre-season training in mid-December, stretching out close to top gear in straight-line running exercises away from the main group. He has moved onto lateral movement drills now the Roos have returned from their Christmas break. Key defender Joel Tippett beefed up by six kilograms during the post-season break in his bid to nail down a spot in North's best 22. The recently elevated rookie tore his pectoral against Geelong in round 10 and fell just short of returning for the preliminary final loss, but is set to pick up where he left off. Meanwhile, first-round draft pick Taylor Garner has progressed to high intensity straight-line running following hip surgery. Garner's 2014 was ruined by repeat hamstring injuries, with the decision made in August to cut his season short without him playing an AFL match. The 21-year-old has been running since pre-season kicked-off in November and is on track to be available for round one barring any setbacks. – Travis King
PORT ADELAIDE
Perhaps it is testament to the Powers' elite conditioning – combined with a healthy slice of good fortune – that the club had very few long-term injury concerns heading into another gruelling pre-season. Five players went under the surgeon's knife at the end of the last campaign – Angus Monfries (hip), Brad Ebert (shoulder), Jay Schulz (shoulder), Aaron Young (shoulder) and Matt White (groin) – but all were back in action for a return to summer training. The Power ramped up its pre-Christmas training to even higher levels than the previous two seasons under fitness guru Darren Burgess when they travelled to Dubai, and Ken Hinkley's men are in top shape early in the New Year as they eye an assault on the 2015 flag. – Travis King
RICHMOND
Important defender David Astbury will be a welcome addition for the Tigers next season after a dislocated kneecap ended his 2014 campaign prematurely in round nine. Astbury returned to play one VFL match at the end of last year and is in the midst of a full summer program. The 195cm backman was one of Richmond's only injury concerns towards the end of last year, although Matt Thomas (knee) is yet to rejoin the main group after post-season surgery. – Travis King
ST KILDA
The Saints had an extensive injury list at the end of the 2014 season, but that list has diminished significantly. Shane Savage (arm), Eli Templeton (arm), Jarryn Geary (calf), Tom Lee (shoulder), Jack Billings (hamstring), Blake Acres (quad), Daniel Markworth (hamstring), Luke Delaney (hip surgery), Jimmy Webster (foot fractures), Josh Bruce (shin surgery), Tom Curren (groin surgery) and Luke Dunstan (shoulder) are all back in full training. Arryn Siposs is still six weeks away from starting his rehab after re-injuring his shoulder in December. Tom Hickey (knee) is four to six weeks away from joining in full training, while Sam Gilbert (foot) is aiming to be available for round one. Brodie Murdoch (back) is on a modified program, while Jack Lonie (ankle) will resume training in late January. – Ben Guthrie
SYDNEY SWANS
A number of senior Swans have upped the ante in their pre-season campaigns after rejoining full training after the Christmas break. Adam Goodes (knee), Mike Pyke (knee), Sam Reid (knee) and Craig Bird (knee) have all returned to the training track after limited preparations following off-season surgeries. Reid, in particular, impressed in the Swans' 3km time trial on Monday. Ruckman Tom Derickx has also not missed a beat after returning to training in November. Derickx, who managed 12 games in his first season with the Swans in 2014, suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in July last year but is well on his way to being fit to start this season. Star forwards Lance Franklin and Kurt Tippett have also increased their workloads since starting back at training on Monday. In good news for the Swans, youngster Lloyd Perris is making some strong progress in his return from a torn ACL early last season. – Ben Guthrie
WEST COAST
Eagles best and fairest winner Eric Mackenzie has returned to training in top nick following post-season hip surgery. The gun backman posted a blistering time in the club's 2km time trail on Monday in stifling conditions. Mark LeCras, who had a plate removed from his twice fractured arm, is also back in full training and appears to be in top shape. Matt Rosa (torn pec)and Xavier Ellis remain in the rehab group, but both have made steady progress and are on track for the start of the season. Star backman Beau Waters (shoulder) has been impressive at training, while Nic Naitanui (groins)showed in the recent International Rules Series that he is fit and firing. Sharrod Wellingham (knee)and Brad Sheppard (ankle) are back in full training, while Jeremy McGovern (hip) is due back to full training by the end of January. Callum Sinclair (finger) and Elliot Yeo (hand) are both training away from the main group, with Yeo expected back in full training in February. Scott Selwood (ankle)and Jack Darling (foot) have been restricted to light duties, with Darling awaiting the results of scans after spending time in a moonboot. – Ben Guthrie
WESTERN BULLDOGS
The Bulldogs' most expensive recruit Tom Boyd was confined to running laps in early December after a bout of appendicitis in his first week at the club. He returned to full training after the Christmas break, only to dislocate a finger in his right hand on Thursday. A minor setback that shouldn't see him miss much football if any. Defenders Fletcher Roberts and Jordan Roughead have resumed full training after shoulder reconstructions at the end of last season, while Matt Fuller has also returned to full contact training. The only long-term prospect on the Dogs' injury list is Clay Smith. The midfielder ruptured the ACL in his right knee for a second time last season but is on track to return to competitive football mid-year after resuming running in November. – Nat Edwards
Last edited:
Three key Cats struck down with injury
Jennifer Phelan January 15, 2015 5:55 PM
GEELONG has been dealt a triple blow with star recruit Mitch Clark, key tall Nathan Vardy and veteran Steve Johnson all suffering injuries. Clark has had his training load reduced after suffering a calf strain, with the Cats acting conservatively with former Demon. The 27-year-old, who joined the Cats in last year's trade period after changing his mind on his April retirement, is on a modified program after sustaining the injury. Just a week ago, coach Chris Scott said he was confident Clark – who has battled foot problems in the past few years – would be fit to play in round one against Hawthorn on April 6. The Cats remain optimistic regarding his fitness, with the latest setback not expected to drag on.
"Mitch has been training incredibly well so far and whilst this injury is unfortunate we don't believe it will be something that will hamper his build up to the start of the season," football manager Steve Hocking told the club's website. Clark became a Cat in October last year after retiring from Melbourne because he felt he could no longer cope with football's demands, due to his battle with depression. He moved into a better space throughout last year and was buoyed by the prospect of continuing his 97-game AFL career at a new club.
In further bad news for the club, Johnson and Vardy have also suffered interruptions to their pre-seasons. Johnson, 31, has been sent away for an early break after developing soreness in his foot. "Steve is quite aware of his body and after pulling up a little sore following a preseason session our club medical staff thought the best course of action would be to give him some downtime now," Hocking said. "Most of our list will be given some time away at the end of the January but we decided to send Steve to Queensland now and have him train in the period at the end of January when the rest of the squad is away."
Vardy, who had his right knee reconstructed in February last year, will have surgery next week to remove scar tissue, which is a common procedure following the rebuild of the joint's ligament. "We view Nathan with an eye to the future so we are nipping this one in the bud before it can cause any problems down the track," Hocking said.
Given Clark and Vardy both failed to play any football at all in 2014, the Cats are keen on maintaining a conservative approach with both big men. The Cats open their NAB Challenge campaign against Gold Coast on March 1 in Townsville.
Jennifer Phelan January 15, 2015 5:55 PM
GEELONG has been dealt a triple blow with star recruit Mitch Clark, key tall Nathan Vardy and veteran Steve Johnson all suffering injuries. Clark has had his training load reduced after suffering a calf strain, with the Cats acting conservatively with former Demon. The 27-year-old, who joined the Cats in last year's trade period after changing his mind on his April retirement, is on a modified program after sustaining the injury. Just a week ago, coach Chris Scott said he was confident Clark – who has battled foot problems in the past few years – would be fit to play in round one against Hawthorn on April 6. The Cats remain optimistic regarding his fitness, with the latest setback not expected to drag on.
"Mitch has been training incredibly well so far and whilst this injury is unfortunate we don't believe it will be something that will hamper his build up to the start of the season," football manager Steve Hocking told the club's website. Clark became a Cat in October last year after retiring from Melbourne because he felt he could no longer cope with football's demands, due to his battle with depression. He moved into a better space throughout last year and was buoyed by the prospect of continuing his 97-game AFL career at a new club.
In further bad news for the club, Johnson and Vardy have also suffered interruptions to their pre-seasons. Johnson, 31, has been sent away for an early break after developing soreness in his foot. "Steve is quite aware of his body and after pulling up a little sore following a preseason session our club medical staff thought the best course of action would be to give him some downtime now," Hocking said. "Most of our list will be given some time away at the end of the January but we decided to send Steve to Queensland now and have him train in the period at the end of January when the rest of the squad is away."
Vardy, who had his right knee reconstructed in February last year, will have surgery next week to remove scar tissue, which is a common procedure following the rebuild of the joint's ligament. "We view Nathan with an eye to the future so we are nipping this one in the bud before it can cause any problems down the track," Hocking said.
Given Clark and Vardy both failed to play any football at all in 2014, the Cats are keen on maintaining a conservative approach with both big men. The Cats open their NAB Challenge campaign against Gold Coast on March 1 in Townsville.
- Status