Matthew Leuenberger is edging closer to his senior AFL return after a promising display with the Brisbane Lions Reserves last Saturday.

Leuenberger, who had only played limited minutes in his past two NEAFL outings, not only completed his first ‘full’ game since undergoing knee surgery four months ago, but was a key contributor to the Lions’ 73-point win over Southport.

In the weekly Reserves Wrap, Development Coach Matthew Francis said Leuenberger was “outstanding” against the Sharks, hinting that a senior return probably wasn’t far away.

The 26-year-old ruckman also received the tick of approval from Physical Performance Manager, Brett Burton.

“(Things are) really positive for Leuey. He’s been back in the Reserves for three games now and has progressed with his load,” Burton told Lions TV as part of the Bupa Recovery Report.

“He played three quarters last week and got through a full game on the weekend.

“He’s pulled up really well, so he’ll be available for selection. It’s just up to the Match Committee whether he plays in the seniors or reserves.”

If selected in the senior team, Leuenberger will line-up against Collingwood for the first time since Round 22 of 2011.

Coincidentally, that was also the last time the Lions played under lights at the MCG.