Pearce Hanley, Matt Rosa and Brayden Fiorini are all tests to return to the field this week after successfully completing their respective rehabilitation programs.
Gold Coast SUNS General Manager – Football Operations, Jon Haines, told the Alpha Sport Injury Update it was positive news to see the trio return fit and healthy.
“Subject to them getting through training tomorrow and ticking off all the necessary markers, they’ll be looking to play some game time in the NEAFL this weekend which is exciting for all three of those boys,” Haines said.
Steven May has pulled up well and carries no injuries into this week after a pair of incidents saw him leave the field in the match against North Melbourne on Saturday.
Sam Day has met with an interstate surgeon and will discuss his options with the club in the coming days.
“It’s looking likely that Sam will go in for surgery at some point and have a repair to that shoulder,” Haines said.
“If that’s the case he’ll be looking at a roughly 16-week rehabilitation period.
“That will be him (done) for this year but (we’re) certainly looking to get him nice and fit and ready to go for the upcoming pre-season.”
After missing last week’s game against North Melbourne with a minor injury, Ben Ainsworth will be given another week to rest.
“We felt that after a big load throughout the season and particularly with stepping up and playing a lot of midfield time this year that Ben needed a break,” Haines said.
“He also had a really small issue with his lower leg that probably wouldn’t have hurt from a week off as well.
“That leg injury has lingered a little bit this week so we’re thinking in terms of Ben’s best interests we’ll give him another week off and look forward to him returning next week.”
Michael Barlow will remain on the sidelines for a while longer as he continues to recover from a fractured jaw.
“His issue with his jaw is still tracking along well but at this point in time (he’s) not quite ready to return to play this week,” Haines said.
“We’ll continue to monitor that situation and hopefully Mick will be returning to the field shortly.”
