Fremantle High Performance Manager Phil Merriman says Club captain Alex Pearce will be a test to play against Hawthorn in Tasmania on Saturday.
“Pearcy is tracking very well, he’s doing everything he can to get back (to playing),” Merriman said.
“It’s getting close, he’s just got to jump over a few more hurdles in main training this week and he will be a test to play.”
Meanwhile Fremantle will be without number one ruckman Sean Darcy, who was subbed out at halftime with concussion during the Club’s 51-point win over the Tigers.
“Sean has appeared today and is in good spirits, he will go into the (concussion) protocols as they all do, and we will update the Freo fans as it comes,” Merriman said.
In positive news, Merriman was able to confirm that young key defender Joshua Draper would likely be available for selection after battling through a groin issue late in the game at the weekend.
“He (Draper) got a contusion to his groin area, but everything has checked out well,” says Merriman.
“He was out running his flush this morning, so we expect him to get through the week.”
Fellow young defender Brandon Walker will also be a test to play following a week on the sideline with a shoulder injury.
“It was a bit precautionary by the Club (decision to not play Walker), he had a little AC joint complaint,” Merriman said.
“He will be joining in full training this week and the plan is for him to be available to play.”
Youngsters Nathan O’Driscoll and Sebit Kuek both made successful returns to the playing field at the weekend after long stints on the sidelines recovering from knee injuries.
“They both pulled up well,” Merriman said.
“They both ran their lights out, they were obviously very excited to be back and had huge run numbers.
“They will have a bit of a lighter week given it is their first week returning but will be ready to go this week.”
ROUND 18 INJURY LIST
Josh Draper (groin) - test
Alex Pearce (forearm) - test
Brandon Walker (shoulder) - test
Sean Darcy (concussion) - 1 week
Ollie Murphy (abdomen) - 5-7 weeks
Oscar McDonald (knee) - 6-7 weeks
Josh Corbett (hip) - season
