Brandon Starcevich is set for his much-anticipated debut in the blue and gold, with the premiership defender on track to feature at WAFL level this weekend on managed minutes.
Starcevich has been building his fitness base following his injury and is set to play for the WAFL Eagles against East Fremantle on Saturday.
“It’s exciting times for ‘Starce’ and our fans,” High Performance Manager Phil Merriman said.
“As long as he gets through training this week, he’ll return on managed minutes as we build him back into full match play.”
Archer Reid is also closing in on a return after a strong week on the track following a knee complaint that has sidelined him for the past four games.
“Arch had a really good training week last week,” Merriman said.
“He’ll need to get through training before being assessed, with his availability to be determined after that.”
In disappointing news, forward Jack Hutchinson will spend several weeks on the sidelines after sustaining a hamstring injury late in the win over the Giants.
“Unfortunately, Hutch felt some hamstring awareness late in the game,” Merriman said.
“Scans have shown a low-to-moderate grade strain, and we’ll let that settle before confirming an exact timeframe.”
There is encouraging progress for Tyler Brockman as he edges closer to availability, while Jamie Cripps remains under assessment following a knee injury sustained during the WAFL clash in round six.
“Tyler is continuing to progress his football and is getting closer to a return,” Merriman said.
“We’re still assessing ‘Crippa’s’ knee day by day before determining how we progress.”
Sam Allen has returned to the club following surgery and has started his strength program while Jack Graham continues to build following shoulder surgery.
“Jack has ramped up his training volume and intensity,” Merriman said.
“We still need to protect his shoulder from football for the next couple of weeks, and then we will see him building back into the main program.”
Harry Edwards is continuing to recover after his recent concussion, with the club prioritising his wellbeing.
“Harry is in great spirits around the club,” Merriman said.
“We’ll follow the appropriate process to make sure we get the best care that Harry needs before considering what the next step in his football will be.”
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