THE Demons will be monitoring several players this week as they prepare for their Round 18 clash against North Melbourne.

Blake Howes is on the verge of a return after entering concussion protocols.

“He’s progressed really well and is now in the final stage of the concussion protocols, which involves completing a full team training session,” High Performance Manager Selwyn Griffith said.

“If he gets through that, he’ll be cleared to play.”

Harrison Petty will remain sidelined this week, with his recovery slightly delayed by illness.

“Petts was unwell last week, which meant his concussion protocol had to be extended slightly. Given his previous concussion earlier in the year, he’s progressing a bit slower through the protocols," Griffith said. 

“He’ll return to full training next week and should be available the following round.”

Oliver Sestan is also nearing a return after a hamstring injury.

“Ollie’s tracking really well. He’ll be back in full training this week, with the aim to be available for selection next week.”

Charlie Spargo made a successful return against Coburg through the VFL over the weekend.

“Spargs has done a strong block of work with his shoulder over the past month. He had a great impact in the VFL and pulled up well," Griffith said. 

“He’ll continue training and is available for selection this week.”

Aidan Johnson continues to work towards a return from an ankle injury and is building nicely.

“He had a strong week on the track and completed some match-intensity level drills," Griffith said. 

“He’ll return to full training this week and we’re planning to fully reintegrate him into training next week.”

In more unfortunate news, Marty Howe has undergone surgery on his ACL.

“Marty had his ACL repaired last week after also injuring his biceps tendon. Once he’s off crutches, he’ll also require shoulder surgery," Griffith said. 

“But he’s recovering well and we’ll support him closely through both recoveries.”