3 minute read

Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir says Nat Fyfe will be fit to start pre-season training as planned despite a recent flare-up in his elbow.

Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has played down any injury concerns surrounding Nat Fyfe despite the two-time Brownlow medallist suffering another elbow flare-up.

Fyfe underwent surgery on his right elbow in early 2019 and he went to hospital later that year to go on an antibiotic drip to treat an infection in the elbow.

The Fremantle skipper recently suffered a minor flare-up, but Longmuir said it wasn't anything to worry about.

"It was nothing. I think he had an infection or something where it just blew up for a day or two," Longmuir said on Wednesday.

"From what I hear he's doing a really solid training block down in Margaret River somewhere. He'll be right to go come pre-season."

Defender Joel Hamling looks set to avoid a third round of surgery on his troublesome left ankle after making steady progress over the past month.

Hamling first dislocated his left ankle in February and was forced to undergo a second operation in May after failing to recover well.

There were fears Hamling would need a third round of surgery, but as it stands he is making steady progress and could play early in 2021.

"It's fantastic to see him out there and see him with a smile on his face doing what he loves best," Longmuir said.

"So far so good. He hasn't missed a session, he hasn't pulled up sore, he hasn't been restricted at all.

"It's really pleasing for him and the team because he's a vital player for us."

Forward Sam Sturt is expected to resume running duties after Christmas after suffering a slight setback in his recovery from ankle surgery.

Midfielder Darcy Tucker is making good progress from the serious hamstring tear he suffered in round eight while defender Taylin Duman (wrist) will join the main group after Christmas.

Fremantle's injury curse from 2020 which ravaged the team's playing stocks struck a late victim this week - Longmuir himself.

"All the players have hit the ground running - only the coach did a minor hammy the other day," Longmuir said.

"I've never done a soft tissue injury but I can still feel it, so the physios are saying that's not a good sign.

"I might have to start acting my age and watch on from the sidelines for a while."

Fremantle's new draftees Heath Chapman, Joel Western and Josh Treacy all featured at pre-season training on Wednesday.