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Ah Chee to make AFL return for Suns

3 minute read

Callum Ah Chee will return for Gold Coast's AFL clash with St Kilda in Townsville, replacing injured midfielder Jordan Murdoch.

CALLUM AH CHEE of the Suns kicks the ball during the AFL match between the Adelaide Crows and Gold Coast Suns at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia.
CALLUM AH CHEE of the Suns kicks the ball during the AFL match between the Adelaide Crows and Gold Coast Suns at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia. Picture: Daniel Kalisz/Getty Images

Gold Coast midfielder Callum Ah Chee will make his first appearance of the AFL season this Saturday against St Kilda.

The 21-year-old, who has proven his fitness from a quad injury with a run of games in the Suns' reserves, will replace the injured Jordan Murdoch (ankle) for the clash with the Saints in Townsville.

It's the first AFL game in 2019 for the No.8 pick in the 2015 draft, in a year that began with a period of leave for personal reasons before the quad injury.

Coach Stuart Dew said it was exciting times for the Suns to have the versatile Ah Chee back in their lineup.

"We're all looking forward to it. I think the players are and the whole club because obviously he's had a few ups and downs over the last 12 months with injury," Dew said.

"We're pleased to get him out there and see what he can do again."

Ah Chee's return is a boost for the Suns as they head to north Queensland hopeful of ending an eight-game losing run before the bye.

Dew said the West Australian offers versatility across several areas of the field.

"Good ball use. Nice outside speed. We can play him down back, on the wing, or even up forward so some really good flexibility," the Suns coach said about what Ah Chee brings to his team.

Fellow midfielder Touk Miller's corked thigh was only put through a light training run on Thursday.

The Suns vice-captain hurt his leg early in last weekend's 27-point loss to North Melbourne but played out the game.

Dew says a decision on Miller will be made before the Suns name their team to face the Saints.

"We'll see how he pulls up this afternoon," Dew said.

"Did what he was required today. We weren't always going to train fully. We're giving him every chance."

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