Carlton key forward Mitch McGovern looks likely to make his season debut this weekend.
The former Adelaide high-flyer had an interrupted pre-season dealing with the back and hamstring issues that have held him back for his entire Blues tenure.
He has now played two VFL games to build match fitness, kicking six goals across the matches.
Carlton coach David Teague expects McGovern to be right in the frame for their clash with Port Adelaide.
“Mitch has played two games back, he’s put his hand up as a possible replacement for Jack Silvagni, we’ll see how he goes at training today, but he’ll be right in the mix,” Teague told SEN Breakfast.
Jack Silvagni will miss a month with a shoulder injury that he re-injured in the side’s win over Gold Coast.
Teague also provided an update on 2018 first round draft pick Liam Stocker, who ha been impressing in the VFL so far this season.
“He’s been going well and he had a really good pre-season, he’s competing well as a strong-bodied inside mid,” the Blues coach said.
“He’s playing some consistent footy and is thereabouts at the moment.”
Carlton hosts Port Adelaide at the MCG on Saturday night and Teague is confident the Blues will take it up to the reigning minor premier.
"I think this is something our group needs to handle. We may not get the result, but we'll go out there, play the way we want to play and see where we're at,” he said.
"We feel if we play our way with intent and conviction, we will win the game."
Carlton is likely to regain star midfielder Zac Williams for the key clash.
🚨 It’s Carlton membership day!🚨
Today only, become a 3 Game member and receive double the access.
Join over 80,000 fellow Bluebaggers as a member now.