MATT Spangher will need to pass a fitness test on Thursday but the Hawks expect the defender to be fit for Sunday’s clash against the Bulldogs in Tasmania.
The Hawks cult figure didn’t play in Saturday night’s crucial clash against Sydney after being forced onto the sidelines with ankle soreness.
General Manager – Football Operations Chris Fagan revealed on Tuesday that decision was a cautious one by the Hawks given his history with injuries.
After training well on Tuesday, Fagan believes Spangher will return on Sunday.
“He’s tracking well,” he told hawthornfc.com.au
“He’s an important player to us so we rested him to make sure his ankle would be right.
“He trained today but will need to pass a fitness test on Thursday, but we expect he will (play).”
Spangher has been a valuable inclusion for the Hawks, filling a key defensive post in the absence of both Brian Lake and Josh Gibson.
He has thrived in his role as a defender and benefitted from the opportunity to string together consistent senior appearances.
Athletic for his size, Spangher has impressed not only in his one-on-one defensive ability but also with his offensive capability.
Veteran midfielder Brad Sewell, however, will most likely need to wait another week before making his return from a hamstring injury.
Sewell suffered the injury in the opening minutes of the loss to North Melbourne and hasn’t played since.
“I think he’s more likely to miss than play,” Fagan said of Sewell.
“We just want to make sure that he’s ok. He’s training well and we’ll see on Thursday but at this stage is unlikely to take the field for the Hawks on Saturday.”
Cyril Rioli, meanwhile remains on track to return before finals.
