Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Max King comeback plans are moving closer at St Kilda, with coach Ross Lyon set to meet the club’s high-performance staff later this week to lock in a clearer timeline for the key forward’s AFL return.
King has not played at AFL level for two years and suffered another setback in early May when he strained his hamstring during a VFL match, but his recent progress has lifted hopes at Moorabbin.
The Saints’ injury watch comes as another major AFL club manages its own fitness concern, with Jack Viney’s injury cloud growing as the Melbourne Demons push for finals.
Lyon Offers Mixed Message On King
Lyon was upbeat on Wednesday, even while joking about the wording around King’s return.
"I wouldn't use the word 'imminent', but someone did, so that sort-of lit it up," Lyon said.
"He has made real ground ... I'm going to have a meeting later in the week, probably Friday, with our high-performance team to get an exact feel on it.
"But it's imminent."
That final line will excite St Kilda supporters, who have waited through a long injury run for one of the club’s most important attacking players.
Saints Face Tough Port Adelaide Test
St Kilda enter Saturday’s Marvel Stadium clash against Port Adelaide after a comfortable win over Essendon, but Lyon knows the challenge rises sharply this week.
The Saints sit 12th with a 7-9 record, a healthy percentage and a spot within reach of the wildcard race.
Lyon pointed to Port Adelaide’s control around the ground, front-half pressure and stoppage work as major threats.
"They really squeeze the time and space around the ground - they only allow about 74 uncontested marks. They're in pretty good shape," Lyon said.
Zak Butters, Jason Horne-Francis, Aliir Aliir and Jordan Sweet all shape as key figures for Port Adelaide.
Official AFL fixtures and club updates are available through the AFL.
De Koning And Wilson Also In Focus
Lyon also confirmed ruckman Tom De Koning is back running as he works through fractured ribs.
The coach was asked about young St Kilda talent Darcy Wilson, who is in form during a contract year.
"We have 44 (players), we like to look after fairly. I don't think everyone's equal, because everyone would get Communism - he's be getting 150 (thousand)," Lyon said.
"We'll work it out and ultimately we have to satisfy him."
