Three players from Brisbane will be eligible for selection after recent injury bouts, but a young forward will be out because of a possible concussion he had over the weekend in the VFL.
Lockdown defender Brandon Starcevich, who dealt with hamstring issues throughout Round 24, will be available to play against Carlton on Saturday, as anticipated.
The Lions backman missed the team’s last home and away game of the season, but he recovered in time for Brisbane’s opening final thanks to the pre-finals bye.
Important defenders Jack Payne (foot) and Bruce Reville (leg) were sidelined for the last few weeks of the Lions season in the run-up to September, but they were able to play for the VFL team over the weekend.
Coach Chris Fagan will have plenty to think about before making his decision on Thursday because all three players have been declared eligible to participate in this week’s elimination final against Carlton.
Starcevich is expected to rejoin the club right away, most likely in place of Noah Answerth, who participated in his first game since Round 14 more than a week ago.
Since Payne’s injury precluded him from playing before Round 17, Darragh Joyce has filled the tall defensive role. Payne might take over for Joyce.
Speaking on Thursday prior to the start of major training, Fagan acknowledged that “it’s not that easy” to switch out a crucial defender for another and stated that the selection committee has a lot to consider.
“We just need to have a look at him at training today,” Fagan added.
“Tuesday was adjusted, primarily as a precaution, as he was understandably a little more sore than usual following his first game in a while.
“This afternoon, we’ll assess his training and make a determination.
“It isn’t that simple. Although I believe Darragh Joyce has done an amazing job, it’s good to know that Jack is still available.”
James Tunstill, a young Lion, entered concussion protocols over the weekend and will not be eligible for selection in the interim.
The 21-year-old will be out of action for at least 12 days due to a high knock he sustained during Brisbane’s VFL final loss to Footscray. This will prevent him from playing in the club’s VFL semi-final against Williamstown and the forthcoming match against Carlton.
Brisbane will announce their starting lineup for their elimination round matchup against the Blues on Thursday at 6:20 p.m. (AEST). An hour before to the 7:30 p.m. bounce, their complete roster will be disclosed.
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