Two-time Brownlow Medallist “not in any doubt” for Prelim despite confirmed heel injury

Brisbane co-captain and star midfielder Lachie Neale has confirmed that he will be good to feature in the Lions’ Preliminary Final against Geelong despite a nagging heel complaint.

Neale was seen clutching at his heel during the final term of the Lions’ incredible Semi-Final comeback victory over the Giants, however is certain that the persisting soreness will not hinder his chances to feature in Saturday’s contest.

“(I am) certainly not in any doubt (about playing this weekend)," Neale told SEN Breakfast.

“Probably over the last eight to ten weeks I’ve had a fairly significant issue with my heel but on game day it actually feels 100 per cent most of the time.

“It was probably the first game (this weekend) where it flared up a bit, obviously take some painkilling stuff to help that and that must have worn off a little bit and I must have moved a different way.

“It was grabbing a little bit more than usual.”

Neale has confirmed that the injury has continued to inhibit his ability to prepare for both of Brisbane’s two finals thus far and will certainly slow his role during training over the course of the week.

“I don’t do much early in the week,” he continued.

“If you watch training, you’d probably think I’m not actually going to play, that’s how badly I’ve been moving but game day I honestly feel 100 per cent.

“Definitely will play, just carrying a little bit of foot and heal soreness at the moment.”

The Lions have a massive task ahead, taking on the Cats at the MCG in this Saturday’s Preliminary Final.