Gold Coast defenders Steven May and Rory Thompson could both return to the senior team for the SUNS’ round seven game against Geelong at Metricon Stadium.

As reported in last week’s Optomo Injury Report, May has been restricted to light duties as he nurses himself back from a hamstring injury sustained against Carlton in Round 4, while Thompson is on the comeback from quad tightness.

General Manager of Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft said on Wednesday the club’s defensive leaders were nearing a comeback and a return as early as next week was possible.

“They’re making good progress; won’t play this weekend but will be a test for the following weekend’s game,” Ashcroft told Optomo Injury Report.

It’s a similar timeframe for Pearce Hanley (bruised heel) and Mitch Hallahan (hamstring) also, with both midfielders sidelined with separate problems.

“Both those boys injured themselves in the reserve’s game last weekend; again they’re also making good progress and will be a test for the following weekend’s game.”

Meanwhile, Trent McKenzie is expected to take slightly longer to recover, with the rebounding backman also nursing his own soft-tissue complaint.

“Trent’s hamstring is a little bit more significant than the other two; he won’t play this weekend nor the weekend after.

“It’s still looking at 2-3 weeks for Trent to be available for selection.”

Click here to see the full injury list