The West Coast Eagles will continue managing Nic Naitanui’s sore Achilles as he progresses positively towards returning to play.

Naitanui is working through his rehabilitation program, with the star ruckman building his leg strength and regaining his trademark explosiveness.

“Nic has been working diligently with our strength and conditioning team to return to play as soon as possible and is making encouraging progress,” General Manager – Football Gavin Bell said today.

“When Nic does return we want him to play with the same unique explosiveness and power around the contest that we’ve all come to know and admire about his game.

“While he continues his positive progression, Nic won’t be available to play North Melbourne in round one at Marvel Stadium this Saturday.”