LEADER James Frawley will face a fitness test in the lead-up to Saturday’s clash against Geelong at Simonds Stadium.
Frawley was subbed during the second half of Melbourne’s 31-point loss to the Sydney Swans at the MCG on Sunday, due to a hamstring problem.
Acting general manager of football operations Josh Mahoney said the defender will be assessed later in the week.
“James felt some awareness in his hamstring during the game on the weekend,” he told melbournefc.com.au.
“We took a no risk approach to James and he was subbed during the third quarter.
“Scans today (Monday) were positive; he will be monitored during the week and tested before the game against Geelong on Saturday.”
Speedster Sam Blease is on track to return this round, according to Mahoney.
“Sam missed last week’s game with an ankle injury,” he said.
“He ran around today (Monday) and his ankle is feeling much better, so we’d expect him to be available for selection this weekend.”
Mahoney said first-year Demon Jack Viney, midfielder Jordie McKenzie and defender Joel Macdonald were available for selection.
“Jack Viney has completed all his requirements through his rehab,” he said.
“The expectation is that he’ll be available to play this weekend, along with Jordie McKenzie, who has overcome an elbow injury.
“Joel Macdonald has also recovered from a toe injury.”
Runner Rohan Bail (knee) will miss another two to three matches, while midfielder Michael Evans and ruckman Mark Jamar, who have foot injuries, will be sidelined for three more weeks.
Rookie Nathan Stark (ankle) will be out for one to two more weeks and key forward Mitch Clark (foot) remains out indefinitely.
Round 16 Melbourne injury list
Rohan Bail (knee) – 2-3 weeks
Sam Blease (ankle) – test
Mitch Clark (foot) – indefinite
Michael Evans (foot) – 3 weeks
James Frawley (hamstring) – test
Mark Jamar (foot) – 3 weeks
Joel Macdonald (foot) – available
Jordie McKenzie (elbow) – available
Nathan Stark (ankle) – 1-2 weeks
Jack Viney (foot) – available
