Midfielder Dayne Beams is poised to return to football after a lengthy stint on the sidelines.
After overcoming an off-season shoulder reconstruction, Beams has battled knee tendinitis post-Christmas that has prevented him from playing so far this season.
However, he is now training trouble-free and on the verge of returning this weekend against Port Adelaide.
“Dayne’s put together a good couple of weeks of training that has included training with the team,” Lions Head of Physiotherapy Shane Lemcke told LionsTV.
“It will come down to how match committee thinks he’s going, whether he’s got enough work under his belt and when they think he’s ready to play.”
Defender Marco Paparone was a standout in the Lions’ NEAFL side in his return from a hamstring injury, gathering 27 disposals, eight rebound 50s and eight marks.
“He got to about 75% playing time which was really good for his first game back and he’s pulled up really well,” Lemcke said.
“We should be seeing him back in the senior team over the next week or two, I would think.”
Tom Cutler is on track in his rehabilitation from a dislocated shoulder sustained in the Lions’ Round 5 loss to the Western Bulldogs.
“Tom’s shoulder is coming along really well. He’s got all the range back.
“Now it’s just a matter of making sure his strength's up to par before we put him out into contact training again.”
Small forward Josh Green (chest) will be assessed by Lions medical staff throughout the week to determine his availability.
“Josh was pretty sore last week but he’s managed to get moving again and will train with the team. Whether he’s ready or not to play we’ll see throughout the week.”
Meanwhile, defender Hugh Beasley has suffered another injury setback in the NEAFL.
“Unfortunately for Hugh he got hit on the outside of his knee from an opposition player and he strained his medial collateral ligament.
“We’re anticipating it’s probably going to keep him out for three or four weeks.”
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