Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has issued a positive update on the likely return of star on-baller Tom Liberatore.
Liberatore has not played since round 6 after sustaining another knee and concussion setback. The Bulldogs have taken a cautious approach with the inside midfielder, keeping him away from the main training group until only recently.
Coach Luke Beveridge said Liberatore could play after the Bulldogs’ extended break between games after Adelaide on Thursday night.
“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.
“As a duty of care and due diligence approach, to make sure he feels comfortable and get through the training week next week.
“He is likely to be available for selection in that round (15) game I think it is.”
As Western Bulldogs await the return of one fearless midfielder, they remain as firm favourite to secure another in Port Adelaide ace Zak Butters. Beveridge could not be drawn into confirming or denying he met with Butters during the Power’s bye.
But the experienced coach is certain the AFL is not ready for an NRL-style declaration of future from players. “I think we can only get ourselves into trouble as coaches if we talk too much about the acquisition overtures,” he 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.
“I don’t want to go down the NRL track. I think it’s a really difficult thing club-wise to know one of your own players has gone, ‘I’m leaving’.
“Ultimately, they’ll be treated a bit differently … if they’re not your player beyond that year, you can’t help but be emotional about it.”
After holding off Hawthorn last week, Western Bulldogs have a chance to bridge a two-match gap on Adelaide with a win at Marvel Stadium.
