CARLTON defender Liam Jones will be vying for senior selection ahead of this weekend’s clash in his long-awaited return from concussion.
The resurgent defender has been cleared of residual concussion symptoms following a head clash during Carlton’s Round 7 defeat to North Melbourne.
According to Director of High Performance Andrew Russell, the key defender has returned to training at full capacity.
“Liam Jones has been out for a little while as well all know with that concussion,” Russell said.
“He has trained the last two weeks, he looks fantastic and just came off the track now having trained well. He’s available for selection.”
While the Blues’ backline is set to receive a boost of experience in Jones’ impending return, the prognosis is less positive for youngster Tom Williamson.
The rebounding defender showed promising signs in his return earlier this season, but has been sidelined since Round 8 with the recurrence of his back injury.
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“Tom Williamson’s back hasn’t settled as well as we’d hoped. He’s got some bone stress in that back, which is unfortunate for him,” he said.
It’s déjà vu for the young Blue, who is set to miss at least the next six weeks with the same persistent back issue that sidelined him in 2018.
“He certainly won’t play for the next 4-6 weeks so at this stage, he’s indefinite,” Russell said.
“We’ll have to assess to see if he gets back before the end of the season.”
Blues supporters will be relieved to see Ed Curnow back out on the track after coming off late against the Western Bulldogs with an ankle concern.
Russell confirmed the veteran avoided damage and will be available against Fremantle.
“Ed Curnow will be 100 percent fit for this game. His ankle has settled down well and he trained today: he’ll be ready to go this week.”
INJURY LIST
Player | Injury | Timeframe |
Liam Jones | Concussion | Test |
Liam Stocker | Ankle | 2 weeks |
Sam Docherty | Knee | Indefinite |
Tom Williamson | Back | 4-6 weeks |