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Steven trains, adds to Saints' AFL boosts

3 minute read

While Jack Steven is doubtful to play again this season, his return to St Kilda is another boost for the club after a string of player setbacks this year.

JACK STEVEN of the Saints looks dejected after a loss during the AFL match between the St Kilda Saints and the Richmond Tigers at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.
JACK STEVEN of the Saints looks dejected after a loss during the AFL match between the St Kilda Saints and the Richmond Tigers at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia. Picture: Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images

Jack Steven is back at St Kilda, adding to some much-needed good news as they prepare for a massive back half of the AFL season.

The four-time club best and fairest midfielder joined in at training on Tuesday, but it is unclear whether he will play again this year.

Steven has been out of action since round six, taking time off to deal with a mental health issue.

Also on Tuesday, emerging ruckman Rowan Marshall re-signed for three years.

He was due to come out of contract at the end of the season and has been a significant plus for the Saints.

Marshall was their best player in the disastrous Shanghai loss to Port Adelaide.

That left the Saints teetering at 5-6 and they come out of their mid-season bye badly needing a win this Saturday over Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium.

There is ongoing speculation about whether the Saints will continue with coach Alan Richardson beyond this year.

But after a string of setbacks to key players earlier this year, the cavalry is coming.

Star recruit Dan Hannebery will continue his comeback from injury in the VFL this weekend and top-10 draft pick Max King will also have another hitout as he nears his AFL debut.

Jake Carlisle could join them in the Sandringham lineup, with the key defender making a speedy return from back surgery.

Until Shanghai, the Saints had shown impressive spirit this season given their challenges.

Along with the absence of Hannebery, Carlisle and Steven, Dylan Roberton (heart) and Paddy McCartin (concussion) are sidelined for the season.

Jarryn Geary returned from leg surgery in Shanghai with a gruesome scar on his right leg, only to break a bone in his lower left leg.

Geary has undergone surgery and it is doubtful whether he will play again this season.

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