THERE’LL be a familiar face on the bench this Saturday.

Seven weeks after his ACL injury in Opening Round, Sam Docherty will assist the coaching staff from the boundary line starting in Carlton’s crunch clash with Geelong.

It’s not an unfamiliar role for Docherty, who did the same thing when sidelined for two years in 2018 and 2019 as a makeshift assistant.

Speaking to Channel 7, Docherty said it was a chance to continue to have an impact on the playing group while he continues with the lengthy recovery process.

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Interview: Docherty on bench support, Peter Mac Cup

Sam Docherty spoke to Channel 7 about his recovery approach, assisting the coaches on the bench and the preparations for the Peter Mac Cup.

“I understand that my knowledge and my experience is an important part of the footy club,” Docherty said.

“If it can’t be out on the field, then off the field will be the best that I can do.”

Docherty has already spoken of the “emotional” aftermath of the injury sustained against Brisbane, but the veteran has clearly been keeping busy — with a focus both on and off the field.

With the Peter Mac Cup coming next Friday night, Docherty has been hard at work behind the scenes to make the night a special one.

“It’s going to be honouring a lot of people that have gone through their own battles and are fighting themselves at the moment.

“I’m really excited to see what it comes up like.”