Sydney CEO Tom Harley remains optimistic about Lance Franklin’s chances of being fit for Round 1 of the 2019 season.
Franklin underwent groin surgery in November last year after sustaining the injury in the Swans’ Round 22 win over GWS last season.
Speaking on SEN’s KB and The Doc, Harley says they won’t be tempted in rushing the star forward back following his interrupted pre-season.
“I hope so,” Harley said when quizzed about Franklin’s chances.
“We’re not going to put him in a situation where he’s going to risk other games outside of Round 1. That’s the square focus at the moment.”
The 32-year-old responded well to the “revolutionary” surgery after the groin injury failed to settle as quickly as they hoped, according to Harley.
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“He battled some heel pain after Round 1 and then towards the end of the game against the Giants he tweaked his groin,” he added.
“The plan was rest for Lance for a couple of months and then build up strength and fitness after that.
“Unfortunately it didn’t settle in the time that we hoped and the surgical option we went with was something we think is quite revolutionary.
"Lance is responding pretty well to that at the moment.”
Sydney face the Western Bulldogs in Round 1 at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, March 23rd.
Listen to Tom Harley's chat on SEN's KB and The Doc with Kevin Bartlett and Dr Turf in the player below