MELBOURNE is optimistic defender Dean Terlich will be available for Sunday’s clash against Hawthorn at the MCG, after he suffered a knock to the ribs in last round’s 90-point loss to Fremantle at Patersons Stadium.
Football manager Josh Mahoney told melbournefc.com.au on Tuesday that Terlich would be observed closely throughout the week.
“Dean Terlich got a knock to his ribs during the game. As the match progressed, it got worse and he was taken off the ground early in the final quarter and didn’t play anymore,” he said.
“He had scans after the game, which cleared him of any major rib injury. He also had precautionary scans on his lungs to ensure that he could fly home with the team the next day. Those scans were also clear.
“Dean will be monitored this week, but the expectation is that he will play this week.”
Mahoney said youngster Sam Blease, who suffered concussion for Casey against Geelong at Skilled Stadium on Sunday, would also be watched carefully this week.
“Sam received a head knock in the second quarter, playing for Casey against Geelong on the weekend,” he said.
“He will go through the normal process with concussion and head knocks and will be monitored throughout the week.
“An assessment will be made on his availability to play this weekend, later in the week.”
First-year Demon Jimmy Toumpas (ankle) will be tested during the week.
“Jimmy will train this week, after suffering an ankle injury against the Tigers,” Mahoney said.
“Again, he’ll be assessed later in the week on his availability for this week’s game.”
Key defender Tom McDonald is chance to resume, according to Mahoney.
“Tom has made significant progress with his shoulder injury and he’s built up a lot of strength in his shoulder,” he said.
“All things progressing, he may be available this week or next week.”
Mahoney said Jack Viney (toe), Jack Grimes (shoulder) and Mitch Clark (foot) “were all progressing well” from their respective injuries.
Round 10 Melbourne injury list
Sam Blease (concussion) – test
Mitch Clark (foot) – 5-6 weeks
Jack Grimes (shoulder) – 5-6 weeks
Tom McDonald (shoulder) – test
Dean Terlich (ribs) – test
Jimmy Toumpas (ankle) – test
Jack Viney (toe) – 2-3 weeks
