Talented young Irishman Ciaran Byrne is poised to return from a serious knee injury in the VFL next week.
The rebounding defender suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in Round 15 last season, but recommenced full training a fortnight ago.
With Carlton’s senior and reserves teams out of action this weekend, Head of Football Andrew McKay said the plan was for Byrne to return in the Northern Blues’ match against Coburg on June 10.
“Ciaran Byrne’s tracking along very nicely,” McKay said.
“We’ve got the bye this week, but he’ll be a test at the end of next week and hopefully slot into the Northern Blues’ game.
“He’ll be on limited game time as he gets back into game mode, but there’ll certainly be a build-up of game time for the Northern Blues over the next couple of weeks.”
Byrne enjoyed a breakout season in 2016, playing 11 games as a rookie for an average of 17 disposals and four marks.
His encouraging form saw him rewarded with a spot on Carlton’s senior list at the end of the season.
Ciaran Byrne celebrates a win with teammate and housemate Patrick Cripps last season. (Photo: AFL Media)
The 22-year-old, who said it “felt like Christmas Eve” the night before he returned to full training, said his hard work during rehab had paid off.
“It’s pretty exciting to get back out on the track and have a run with the boys,” Byrne said.
“I’ve put a lot of work in over the last couple of months and my body’s feeling pretty strong.”
The Blues will rest up over the bye before hosting the in-form Giants at Etihad Stadium next Sunday.
They’re set to have a near-full squad to choose from, with Sam Rowe (ACL) and Byrne the only players confirmed unavailable for senior selection.
Dale Thomas, who broke his nose against Fremantle, will be available, while Liam Jones faces a fitness test after injuring his ankle in the VFL last week.
CARLTON'S INJURY LIST:
| Ciaran Byrne | Knee | 1 week |
| Sam Rowe | Knee | Season |
| Liam Jones | Ankle | 1 week |
