The Freo senior coach said Hayden Ballantyne, who underwent a procedure on his jaw after the Port Adelaide game, would train and he expected him to play on Saturday night.
“He’s just got a little bit of swelling, it’s a minor procedure,” Lyon said.
“He’ll go out and train today, I’m really optimistic.
“Hayden wants to play, I’d like him to play, if he feels good he’ll play, so there’s a good chance he’ll play.”
Lyon dismissed suggestions there was a risk playing Ballantyne against a side as physical as the Cats.
“Any decision that is still to be made will be based on the fundamental of player well-being and what’s best for the team,” he said.
“We’re not going to pick people who can’t go in and win the ball and chase and tackle feverishly.”
Lyon confirmed All Australian defender Luke McPharlin would not play, but he was “pretty certain” Zac Dawson would return.
Stephen Hill, who copped a knock to the knee against the Power, was also on track to play.
“He’s meeting KPI’s, he should train and play, hopefully,” Lyon said.
The senior coach also said Anthony Morabito would not be selected at AFL level this week.
“We’re all thrilled with him and he’s coming along and each week he gets better,” Lyon said.
“He’s still got bits and pieces of general conditioning to go. His speed is really good, his repeat efforts are a little bit down, but that’s coming to hand every week.”
