INFLUENTIAL midfielder Isaac Smith is a 50-50 chance to take on West Coast Eagles in Friday night’s qualifying final at Domain Stadium.
Smith had scans on his knee on Monday, and GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan says he is a chance to play.
“We’re still not much wiser – really the next couple of days are going to tell the story,” Fagan said.
“If he can get himself moving, he’s a chance to play, but we’ll probably know more by tomorrow night.
“At this stage you’d have to say he’s a 50-50 chance to play, and we’ll just see how the week plays out.”
Fagan said Smith had been upbeat about the injury – which he sustained during the third quarter against the Blues last week – and would “give himself every chance” to play.
The Hawks look set to make at least three changes this week, with Cyril Rioli (illness), Luke Breust (rested) and skipper Luke Hodge (suspension) all right to return.
If Smith isn’t fit for selection, Fagan said there were a number of players pushing for senior selection.
Billy Hartung, Brendan Whitecross, Ryan Schoenmakers, Jonathan Simpkin and Dallas Willsmore were among a host of players who performed strongly in Box Hill Hawks’ qualifying final at the weekend, while ruckman Jon Ceglar also made a solid return from a back injury.
Injury list as at Tuesday 8 September
Smith (knee) test
Webster (hamstring) season
Brand (shoulder) season
Woodward (knee) season
