Scans have confirmed Carlton ruckman Andrew Phillips will be sidelined for approximately eight weeks after suffering a stress reaction in his left foot.

Head of Football Andrew McKay said Phillips saw a specialist on Tuesday, who confirmed the eight-week return date for Phillips.

“This timeframe still keeps him in contention for Round 1, but it may be tight so we will see how he goes with the rehabilitation process,” McKay said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing Andrew back on the park as soon as he can.”

Andrew Phillips pictured during the Blues' 2017 pre-season. (Photo: AFL Media)

Following the Blues’ training session on Wednesday, McKay said Patrick Cripps, who was sidelined in late November after suffering a stress reaction in his back, was making positive progress in his recovery.

“Patrick Cripps has been travelling really well, he’s back running on the grass now which is fantastic,” he said.

“He’s still in line for Round 1 so we’re confident he’ll get to the line and play some good footy from Round 1 onwards.”

Meanwhile, McKay praised the health of the broader playing group after returning from their three-week Christmas break.

“The rest of the list has returned well from their Christmas break. They had three weeks off and were able to freshen up while staying fit,” McKay said.

We’re pleased with how they have come back to the Club and are well and truly stuck into their training programs again.   

“There’s obviously a fair bit of time between now and the start of the JLT Community Series but in saying that, we’re certainly gearing up for footy mode and looking forward to that series and certainly looking ahead to Round 1 after that.”