Karmichael Hunt is a step closer to making his AFL return, with the high-profile midfielder named in the Gold Coast SUNS’ extended squad ahead of Sunday’s match against the Sydney Swans at Metricon Stadium.
Hunt is one of three big inclusions for the GC SUNS, with Rory Thompson and Harley Bennell also eyeing a comeback from wrist and calf injuries, respectively.
The in-form NEAFL player rocketed into Guy McKenna’s round twelve calculations, following successive best on-field performances in the Gold Coast SUNS reserves team.
The tri-code pioneer looked a class above in his most recent outing against the Brisbane Lions’ seconds, easing his way to 30 disposals and an outstanding 11 clearances through the midfield.
Hunt has been named on an extended interchange bench, and GC SUNS General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, told goldcoastfc.com.au the strong-bodied utility is a good chance of earning a first team call-up.
“Karmichael is on track to be taking his place in the side on Sunday,” Ashcroft said
“He had had a minor knee complaint, but if he can get through Saturday’s final training session he will be fit to play.”
Meantime, Trent McKenzie and Danny Stanley completed Thursday’s main training session and have been named in Sunday’s starting line-up.
The Gold Coast defenders will be further assessed at the team’s final training session on Saturday, but remain on track to retain their position in the back-six.
“Danny Stanley and Trent McKenzie completed the team’s main training session, but like Karmichael, still need to get through Saturday’s session if they are to be passed fit to play in our match against Sydney.”
Bennell worked hard to ensure he was in the frame for senior selection, with the exciting half-forward training strongly this week alongside Gold Coast product Thompson.
“Harley trained solidly all week, and we expect him to be fine and play on Sunday.
“Rory also did everything he needed to be passed fit, and has shown he is ready to go.”
Round 12 AFL Premiership Team
B: K. Kolodjashnij, S. May, G. Broughton
HB: C. Cameron, R. Thompson, T. McKenzie
C: J. Harbrow, G. Ablett, M. Rischitelli
HF: D. Stanley, T. Lynch, L. Russell
F: C. Dixon, S. Day, B. Matera
R: Z Smith, J. O’Meara, D. Prestia
INT: A. Sexton, K. Hunt, H. Bennell, D. Swallow, M. Shaw, A. Hall, S. Lemmens
In: Thompson, Bennell, Hunt
