Fremantle could be missing one of their best defenders for the start of the AFL finals, but it’s not Luke McPharlin who’s in grave doubt.
Rebounding backman Garrick Ibbotson is struggling to overcome an Achilles tendon injury and will miss his fourth straight match when the Dockers take on Port Adelaide in Saturday night’s AFL clash at Patersons Stadium.
Ibbotson had been enjoying his best ever season and was in All-Australian contention before succumbing to soreness in his Achilles tendon.
What was originally meant to be a one-week setback has morphed into a month-long concern, with the club still uncertain as to when the 25-year-old will be able to return.
The news is much better for All-Australian defender McPharlin, ruckman Aaron Sandilands and utility Clancee Pearce, who are all on track to return for next week’s clash with St Kilda.
Goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne (shoulder) has been passed fit to take on the Power, but may be given a week off.
Fremantle coach Ross Lyon said Ibbotson failed to get over the “hump” in recent weeks when putting his Achilles tendon to the test at training.
“He’s starting to get to the concerning stage, which is disappointing for Garrick and us,” Lyon said on Thursday.
“They just tell me he’s still sore. I just get frustrated.”
Sandilands (fractured cheekbone) was due to undergo surgery on Thursday, and is likely to wear a protective head piece when he returns.
“All players aren’t thrilled with it. But I think we’ve all matured and it doesn’t matter what you look like, it’s about what’s best for you,” Lyon said.
McPharlin hasn’t played since tearing his calf seven weeks ago, and Lyon admitted it wasn’t ideal that both McPharlin and Ibbotson had missed big chunks of footy so close to finals.
“You can’t go in with players that are underdone,” Lyon said.
“But Garrick is a great athlete who has played nearly every game for two years.
“Luke’s the longest, obviously. He’ll be eight weeks (out). That’s a big call, but one that’s quite unique.”
The eighth-placed Power, who still need another win to secure their spot in the finals, will be without suspended midfielder Hamish Hartlett.