Injury Update – Key Legs set to return

NORWOOD could see the return of several players ahead of its crucial clash with League leaders Glenelg at ACH Group Stadium this Saturday afternoon.

After what has been a hectic period, the Redlegs are back training as they prepare to launch into the final four games with finals all but on the horizon.

The Redlegs could regain ruckman Henry Crauford who is listed as a test for this weekend’s Round 16 clash. The upcoming ruckman has been sidelined with a back injury since Round five and has slowly built his training loads while in rehab making himself available for selection this week.

Amongst the returning players is Eyre Peninsula product Nick Pedro who could return to bolsters Norwood’s defence against the best offence in the competition. The 22-year-old has not played since Round eight against the Eagles as the club has taken a conservative approach with his recovery, however Pedro has completed a full training block and is available for selection.

Utility Brad Ficken could make his comeback to football this weekend as he is listed as a test. The former Basketballer injured his knee in the first trial game against Adelaide in March, however, has now completed his rehab and is available for selection.

Defensive duo Emmanuel Irra (hip) and Brodie Carroll (Hamstring soreness) both missed the Redlegs Round 15 clash with the Eagles due to minor injuries, however, are almost certain to return at either Reserve or League level this weekend.

Tough inside midfielder Mitch Cotter was another who missed Round 15 due to calf soreness and will push to be fit for Saturday, while experienced midfielder/forward Peter Bampton has missed the past two games with back soreness and will train fully this week with a view to being available for selection.

Reserves duo Liam Robinson and Daniel Fairbrother were the only causalities out of the match against Woodville West Torrens three weeks ago. Robinson injured his shoulder, however, is recovering well as he looks to return in Round 19, while Fairbrother remains a chance to play this week as he overcomes a minor hamstring complaint.

Norwood Captain Matthew Nunn is listed as a TBC after he suffered a hamstring injury against Port Adelaide. Nunn will continue in his rehab however is no timeline set on his return. Matthew Panos is in a similar scenario as he continues to recover from his ACL injury sustained last year.

Norwood Injury List as of 3^rd of August 2021:

Brad Ficken (Knee) – Test
Jesse Chandler (Hamstring) – Test
Henry Crauford (Back) – Test
Mitch Cotter (Calf) – Test
Emmanuel Irra (Hip) – Test
Nick Pedro (Concussion) – Test
Brodie Carroll (Hamstring) – Test
Peter Bampton (Back) – Test
Daniel Fairbrother (Hamstring) – Test
Liam Robinson (Shoulder) – 3 Weeks
Matthew Panos (Knee) – TBC
Matthew Nunn (Hamstring) – TBC
Sam Duke (Shoulder) – Season
Jed Spence (Knee) – Season
Jonty Patrick (Shoulder) – Season