Gold Coast coach Rodney Eade believes captain Gary Ablett is a couple of weeks away from returning to full contact training.
The Suns’ midfielder has been making steady progress in recovering from the left shoulder injury which ended his 2014 AFL season, gradually building up his training levels with a view to taking part in at least two of the club’s pre-season cup matches.
Eade said Ablett’s progress had been encouraging and he was confident the dual Brownlow medallist was on track to make a full recovery.
“He had a bit of a watershed weekend where he extended his shoulder a bit more,” Eade told reporters.
“I’d imagine, in a couple of weeks, he’ll be in full contact.
“His fitness levels are fantastic at the moment compared to what he’s been in the past – he’s gone to another level.”
While Ablett has been on restricted duties during the pre-season campaign, he’s shown plenty of indication that he’s determined to come back as good as he was before the dislocated shoulder.
The Suns begin their pre-season cup campaign on March 1 against Geelong, with Eade anticipating Ablett will play some role in the following matches against GWS and Brisbane.
“There’s only the three (games) so he’ll be like the older players,” he said.
“They’ll pick what they need to do … I can’t imagine any player playing all three games.”
Eade has also announced he’s set to name the Suns’ leadership group next week.