Carlton captain Chris Judd is planning to return to lead the Blues in the second round of the NAB Cup against the Western Bulldogs.
The AFL club have held Judd back for this weekend’s round one round-robin series against Adelaide and Port Adelaide due to recent shoulder surgery.
However he said he was determined to line up against the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on March 4.
The 28-year-old recently made a full return to training following an arthroscopy operation on his right shoulder.
The procedure in December showed some ligament damage but fears he would miss the start of the premiership season have been put to one side.
Judd believed he would be fully fit to play next month, but admits he has yet to convince the fitness staff.
He said he had no lingering doubts about the shoulder problem and was confident of leading the side into the Blues’ regular season opener against Richmond on March 29.
“My shoulder is really well and I’m doing full training with the rest of the team,” Judd said on Wednesday.
“I won’t be playing this weekend, but I’m keen to play the weekend after.
“The fitness coach is trying to get me to play the third NAB Cup game so we’ll wait and see who wins that battle.”
Midfielder David Ellard, who cemented his place in the side last year, said Judd had been “great” on the training track.
“It’s been great to have him out there, especially for the young blokes,” Ellard said.
“Just the way he goes about everything, he’s obviously a true professional and he’ll give himself the best chance to play those games.
“His fitness levels are where he wants them to be and I’m pretty sure he’s very confident with his body, the way he’s training.”
Ellard also said the side was looking forward to ruck/forward Matthew Kreuzer, who struggled with injury last year, playing more of a midfield role.
“He’s obviously had a great pre-season and he’s got his whole body right so hopefully he can get back to playing that consistent old-style Matthew used to play.”
Fullback Michael Jamison is the only other big name missing from the team to play in Adelaide.
Jamison has a “hot spot” stress reaction in his back, but is confident of playing in the later stages of the pre-season competition.
The backman was sidelined in round 14 last year with a knee injury. He returned later in the season but was still bothered by the problem so underwent arthroscopic surgery.
