Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Jack Graham injury update news has given the West Coast Eagles a timely boost, with the experienced midfielder nearing a return after months out with a shoulder injury.
The 28-year-old has not played since he suffered the injury in West Coast’s Gather Round loss to Geelong in April, but he is now listed as one to two weeks away.
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Graham Nears Full Training
West Coast high-performance manager Phil Merriman said Graham will take an important step this week as he moves back into the main football program.
“Jack will be entering the main football program this week and will begin a block of full training prior to his return,” Merriman said.
Graham could come into selection plans for the North Melbourne match at Optus Stadium next week, although the Eagles have a bye at both AFL and WAFL level the following week.
That timing may shape whether West Coast brings back the dual Richmond premiership player quickly or gives him more time to build through training.
Hutchinson Also Closing In
Young forward Jack Hutchinson has the same return timeline after missing the past two games with a hamstring injury.
“We will see Hutch in some more training this week,” Merriman said.
“He has been hitting all of his speed markers and will be looking at full training as early as next week.”
Veteran forward Jamie Cripps remains sidelined indefinitely with a knee injury, while draftee Sam Allen is listed as nine to 11 weeks away after a hamstring setback delayed his return from last year’s ACL injury.
Key defender Harry Edwards remains listed as TBC as he continues to be monitored following another concussion.
Jacob Newton, Noah Long and Dev Robertson are all ruled out for the season, leaving West Coast to manage its list carefully through the second half of the campaign.
Official West Coast Eagles updates are available through the West Coast Eagles website.