A DECISION on whether Marc Murphy returns for Friday night's crucial clash against North Melbourne hinges on a chat between the midfielder and his coach on Thursday.

Murphy has confirmed he put his shoulder to the test in an intense closed training session at Visy Park on Tuesday.

"First session yesterday [was] full contact, so had a few tackling practices, and a bit of bumping and [it] seemed to pull up alright," Murphy told reporters. 

Asked about his chances of playing this week Murphy said: "I'm not too sure, I've got to talk to Ratts probably tomorrow. Probably 80 - 85 percent."

"[I've] just got to get through another session tomorrow, and then work out with Ratts and the coaching staff and see if they want me to play on Friday night."

Murphy had surgery after suffering serious shoulder damage in the Blues round eight loss to Adelaide.

Matt Thompson is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter @MattThompsonAFL