TonyK
CibbuanoKey Cats won't be rushed back
September 1st 2009 11:21
GEELONG coach Mark Thompson says star forwards Steve Johnson and Paul Chapman won't be rushed back into the side before they are ready despite the lure of a week off if they defeat the Western Bulldogs.
Thompson has ruled Johnson (hip) out of Saturday's qualifying final against the Bulldogs at the MCG while Chapman who has missed three of the past four matches due to hamstring problems is in doubt.
"Paul Chapman's obviously a very important player and it would be great to have him play, and we'll make that decision when we do, and we'll make it based on us believing that he can get through the game," Thompson said.
"He is coming along okay and he is a chance to play but we are not saying he is going to play or not going to play at this stage."
"We will see how he pulls up from training tomorrow and that is all we can say at this stage."
Johnson underwent surgery on his hip adductor in Hobart last Friday and could be back as early as next week if the Cats lose to the Dogs.
"He has already knocked on my door asking to play but he probably won't play this week," Thompson said.
"But in all seriousness he is very much a good chance to play next week, which is remarkable I know and you probably won't believe me but that is the truth."
In other injury news, rugged utility Max Rooke (corked thigh), hard-running defender David Wojcinski (ankle) and the much-improved Travis Varcoe (shoulder) will need to pass fitness tests.
Thompson has ruled Johnson (hip) out of Saturday's qualifying final against the Bulldogs at the MCG while Chapman who has missed three of the past four matches due to hamstring problems is in doubt.
"Paul Chapman's obviously a very important player and it would be great to have him play, and we'll make that decision when we do, and we'll make it based on us believing that he can get through the game," Thompson said.
"He is coming along okay and he is a chance to play but we are not saying he is going to play or not going to play at this stage."
"We will see how he pulls up from training tomorrow and that is all we can say at this stage."
Johnson underwent surgery on his hip adductor in Hobart last Friday and could be back as early as next week if the Cats lose to the Dogs.
"He has already knocked on my door asking to play but he probably won't play this week," Thompson said.
"But in all seriousness he is very much a good chance to play next week, which is remarkable I know and you probably won't believe me but that is the truth."
In other injury news, rugged utility Max Rooke (corked thigh), hard-running defender David Wojcinski (ankle) and the much-improved Travis Varcoe (shoulder) will need to pass fitness tests.
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