Melbourne defender Steven May’s injury could be worse than first feared according to SEN Sportsday’s Gerard Healy.
After reports suggested May was battling calf tightness and was in doubt for Saturday’s Round 1 clash against the Western Bulldogs, Healy says he’s heard the two-time All-Australian’s injury issue is “worse than a niggle”.
When teams set are announced at 6:20 pm (AEDT) on Thursday, Healy doesn’t expect the 31-year-old to be named.
“Sources have already suggested to me that May’s injury might be a little bit worse than a niggle,” Healy said.
“We’ll see how that plays out over the ensuing weeks, but there’s no question they’ll take a cautious approach to selection with a 31-year-old with a calf strain.
“That’s what’s been suggested to me, that’s the history of calf issues with older blokes.
“You’re not going to take a risk with him, I’d be staggered if he’s playing if he’s not training this week.
“Then it’s a question of what the scans tell you, it could be one week or two or three.”
On top of a potential May absence, the Demons will be without Jack Viney, Bayley Fritsch and Christian Salem for their season-opener.
Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs meet at the MCG on 7:25 pm (AEDT) Saturday.