West Coast is still awaiting scan results on Luke Shuey’s hamstring but expects the inspirational captain will be sidelined for at least the next three-to-four weeks.
But, in better news, the Eagles are set to establish a return-to-play plan for fellow dual club champion Elliot Yeo following encouraging progress from groin trouble.
Shuey returned 22 days on from a minor hamstring strain and was at his explosive best in managed game time before suffering another setback in the dying stages of Saturday night’s victory over Port Adelaide.
He is facing another stint on the sidelines as the club considers how best to handle the 2018 Norm Smith medallist’s rehabilitation.
“Disappointing for Luke and the footy club. He played so well right up until that last quarter incident,” General Manager – Football Craig Vozzo told westcoasteagles.com.au.
“We’re still investigating exactly where we’ve landed. We’re thinking it’s a low-grade hamstring but because of the Easter break we haven’t quite got the results of the scans as yet.
“We’ll make plans depending on what those scans say.
“He’ll probably be out for at least the next three-to-four weeks we would think, but we’ll have a good look at things, get advice from our doctors and come up with a plan to get Luke right for the long-term.”
The Eagles had another hamstring scare last Friday when half-forward Brendon Ah Chee was also sent for scans.
“Brendon was selected (to play Port) and then unfortunately during the Captain’s Run he had some hamstring awareness, so we’ve gotten that scanned and decided to take a conservative approach, which meant he came out of the side unfortunately for him and for us,” Vozzo said.
“We’ll have a light start to the week and elevate Brendon’s training through the week and see how he copes in readiness for this week.”
Injured star Yeo also took part in the light session on Friday in a positive step forward in his recovery from osteitis pubis.
“Elliot joined in with the guys at the Captain’s Run before the game (versus) Port and trained quite well, it was good to see him out there kicking the balls around and not just running around the boundary line,” Vozzo said.
“I’m sure that was good for him and certainly good for us.
“Having gotten through that section of his build we’ll now sit down – our medical staff and (strength and conditioning) staff – and establish a return to play plan now for Elliot, which is exciting.”
There is also good news for big man Bailey Williams, who is almost ready to play his first game for the year following an ankle problem.
“Bailey is tracking really well. He was raring to go last week and we held him back and took a more conservative approach to his build,” Vozzo said.
“If he gets through training this week he’ll play some significant minutes at WAFL Eagles level this week.”
Hard-working midfielder Mark Hutchings and small forward Jarrod Cameron are also close to making their first appearances next week.
“Mark and Jarrod Cameron are both tracking really well with their training,” Vozzo said.
“They’ve elevated over the last few weeks and all being well we are looking for them to continue that elevation and be ready to play WAFL minutes next week.”
Injury list:
Brendon Ah Chee Hamstring Test
Jarrod Cameron Groin 1 week
Mark Hutchings Knee 1 week
Luke Shuey Hamstring TBC
Daniel Venables Concussion TBC
Bailey Williams Ankle Test
Elliot Yeo Groin TBC
