Key playmakers returned to the field at Optus Stadium on Thursday, with fitness and injury tests still closely monitored before the nearing clash.

Despite the regular downpours, the players seemed in high spirits, most likely due to the imminent return of key forward Josh Kennedy, utility Oscar Allen and versatile Liam Duggan.

Captain Luke Shuey is also nearing his return to the big stage, running periodically throughout the heavier drills before playing for the ‘opposition’ side in the match simulation.

Allen saw plenty of the ball after his one week hiatus due to concussion, with the 22-year-old even going head-to-head with Tom Cole, which featured a fend-off to the face for the hardened defender.

Dual Coleman medallist Kennedy also joined in the action after a week on the sidelines overcoming soreness, and looks set for a big return this weekend after slotting several goals throughout the match simulation.

Young draftee Connor West also slotted seamlessly into the AFL training session, with an impressive play through the midfield which involved sidestepping several players and following-up with a clean entry inside 50.

Meanwhile, Luke Edwards was also the epitome of precision after his debut game in the blue and gold, with several accurate kicks down the corridor exemplifying his skillset.

And steady defender Alex Witherden continues to build on his return date from groin trouble, playing out the match simulation with several impressive marks inside the defensive 50.

Gun midfielder Tim Kelly and goalsneak Isiah Winder ran laps throughout the match simulation, while Brad Sheppard and Callum Jamieson spent time on the bikes.