Carlton are confident veteran defender Sam Docherty has avoided a significant setback after being subbed out of Saturday's win over Melbourne.
The Blues backman had his night come to an abrupt end at three-quarter time against the Demons after suffering an apparent calf injury. The 29-year-old had a fantastic first three quarters, finishing with 22 disposals and a goal.
Docherty has had a stellar 2023 campaign and has been a key factor in the Blues' turnaround amidst fan and media concerns over their performances earlier in the season. Coach Michael Voss has done a remarkable job in revitalising his side whilst the 'Baggers' faithful have faced a roller-coaster campaign to now be looking towards a finals with excitement.
Carlton's head of football Brad Lloyd provided an update on Docherty's injury on Monday, revealing the club holds high hopes for their former skipper.
“He got more of a kick in the calf. We'll have a better look at it this morning when we get in,” Lloyd told SEN Breakfast.
“It's very minor, just a bit of a kick in the calf. It's one of those ones, it was a bit precautionary.
“I know ‘Vossy' and Andrew Russell had a chat at three-quarter time to see how he was going and decided to keep him going then sub him as the quarter went on.
“I don't think it will be anything major.”
Despite the injury to Docherty, it was all smiles for the Blues as they extended their winning streak to eight on the trot. A final-minute shot on goal from Demon Christian Petracca was controversially deemed a behind with insufficient evidence provided to overturn the call.
The win has seen the Blues all but guaranteed a finals berth, their first since 2013.
Carlton can completely secure a finals spot on Sunday as only one more win is required. They take on the Gold Coast Suns at Heritage Bank Stadium at 2:10 PM AEST.
