An initial setback for the return of Harley Bennell's AFL career is set to be passing, with the severity of an off-season calf injury believed to not be as bad as first thought.
Bennell, 27, is looking to revive his career via a position on Melbourne's list, with the former Gold Coast and Fremantle player training with the Demons in the off-season.
It was reported that Bennell was facing a large setback having sustained a calf injury earlier in the week, while SEN host and former Melbourne great Gary Lyon suggests a speedy recovery may be on the cards.
“I believe the calf is not as bad as some doomsayers are suggesting and that he may be running as early as tomorrow,” Lyon told SEN Breakfast on Tuesday.
“He’s still got a lot of work to do obviously, he’s a mile away from getting back into it.
“There were reports when he did the calf that this what it and it was the end and all that sort of stuff, but it’s my understanding that he could be running tomorrow.”
Bennell will look to return to playing at an AFL level for the first time since 2017, having dealt with ongoing injuries with both past clubs.
Bennell will have until March 13 to earn a position on the Demons list through the pre-season supplemental selection period.
