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Dockers' Hogan a chance for AFL return

3 minute read

Key Fremantle forward Jesse Hogan has resumed training with the Dockers after dealing with injuries and mental health troubles since joining the AFL club.

JESSE HOGAN.
JESSE HOGAN. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Troubled key forward Jesse Hogan is a chance to fly to Queensland with his Fremantle teammates ahead of the AFL season restart.

The former Melbourne spearhead has battled serious injuries and personal issues since joining the Dockers at the end of 2018.

Hogan went on indefinite leave from football in January to focus on his mental health.

But Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir said Hogan had rejoined training this week as the Dockers gear up to base themselves in a Gold Coast quarantine Hub for at least four weeks from next month.

"He's a possibility (to go to the Gold Coast), he joined the group this week," Longmuir said.

"It's about integrating him into the club and making sure his physical preparations are right, whenever he joins the team, but to be able to sustain that through the season.

"We forget that Jesse hasn't done a full main training session for almost a year now, given his navicular injury last year.

"There are some physical things that we need to tick off before he's available to play."

Hogan was restricted to 12 appearances last year in his first season at Fremantle after suffering a navicular foot injury that required surgery.

He was also ruled out of the 2019 season opener after missing training following a heavy drinking session.

Hogan's improving health is another positive for the Dockers, who have almost a full squad of players to pick from following the competition shutdown.

Only key defenders Alex Pearce and Joel Hamling, who are recovering from serious ankle injuries, will be unavailable ahead of the June 11 season resumption.

Speedy midfielder Stephen Hill is a week away from full training after injuring his quad during a pre-season game against West Coast in March.

Star veteran David Mundy and St Kilda recruit Blake Acres will be available for selection after injuries forced them out of the round one loss to Essendon.

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