​​​​​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​​

Tom Liberatore is edging closer to a long-awaited return for the Western Bulldogs, with coach Luke Beveridge revealing the veteran midfielder could be available for selection in Round 15. Liberatore has been sidelined since Round 6 after suffering another knee injury and concussion setback, but the Bulldogs are now preparing for his return following an extended rehabilitation process. His comeback would provide a major boost as the club pushes for a strong finish to the AFL season.

The Bulldogs have carefully managed Liberatore’s recovery, gradually reintegrating him into full training after months away from match action.

Beveridge confirmed the experienced midfielder will not be selected for this week’s clash against Adelaide but is progressing well toward a return.

Bulldogs Taking Cautious Approach

Western Bulldogs medical staff have taken a conservative path with Liberatore’s rehabilitation.

The inside midfielder has only recently resumed participation in the club’s main training sessions after spending an extended period away from full contact work.

Beveridge explained the club wants to ensure Liberatore is completely comfortable before returning to AFL competition.

“He won’t be picked this week, he’ll have a really good session on Saturday, we don’t play until the Sunday the following week,” Beveridge said.

“Now we’re just including him in all the main drills with the whole group, and him to get his perspective and being able to operate with bodies around him.”

The Bulldogs coach emphasised that player welfare remains the priority.

“As a duty of care and due diligence approach, to make sure he feels comfortable and get through the training week next week.”

Those comments indicate the club is focused on building confidence as much as fitness ahead of Liberatore’s return.

Round 15 Return Looking Likely

While Beveridge stopped short of guaranteeing a comeback date, he suggested Liberatore is on track to be available after the club’s upcoming break between matches.

The Bulldogs face Adelaide before receiving additional recovery time due to the scheduling of their next fixture.

That extra period could prove crucial in finalising Liberatore’s preparation.

“He is likely to be available for selection in that round game I think it is,” Beveridge said.

For a Bulldogs midfield that thrives on contested football and physical pressure, the return of Liberatore would add valuable experience and leadership.

Few players in the AFL are more renowned for their ability to win contested possessions and set the tone around stoppages.

His presence would strengthen the Bulldogs during an important stage of the season.

Zak Butters Speculation Continues

While Beveridge focused on Liberatore’s recovery, he was also questioned about ongoing speculation linking Port Adelaide star Zak Butters to the Bulldogs.

Reports have suggested the Western Bulldogs remain among the leading contenders to secure the midfielder if he decides to leave the Power.

Beveridge declined to discuss any specific recruitment discussions and refused to confirm or deny reports that he met with Butters during Port Adelaide’s bye period.

“I think we can only get ourselves into trouble as coaches if we talk too much about the acquisition overtures,” Beveridge said.

“Whether it’s Zak or anyone else, I can’t really talk to that in any detail, confirm or deny. I would rather stay out of it.”

The comments are unlikely to quiet speculation surrounding one of the AFL’s most sought after players.

Beveridge Rejects NRL Style Transfer Announcements

The Bulldogs coach also expressed concerns about players publicly announcing future club moves before contracts expire.

Beveridge argued that AFL clubs could face challenges if players openly declared they were leaving while still representing their current teams.

“I don’t want to go down the NRL track,” he said.

“I think it’s a really difficult thing club wise to know one of your own players has gone, ‘I’m leaving’.”

He suggested such situations inevitably create emotional responses within clubs and could affect the way players are perceived during their final season.

The AFL has traditionally avoided the level of mid season transfer announcements commonly seen in rugby league, and Beveridge made it clear he believes that approach should continue.

Crucial Match Against Adelaide Awaits

Before Liberatore’s potential return becomes a reality, the Bulldogs have an important challenge against Adelaide at Marvel Stadium.

A victory would significantly strengthen their position in the race for finals and reduce the gap between the two clubs.

The Bulldogs enter the contest with momentum after a hard fought victory over Hawthorn last week.

Adding Liberatore back into the midfield rotation in the following round would provide another boost as the club enters a critical period of the season.

For now, all signs point toward the experienced midfielder finally nearing a return after a frustrating injury layoff.