Brisbane Lions Optimistic About Oscar Allen's Availability for Season Opener
The Brisbane Lions are expressing confidence that star recruit Oscar Allen will be fit to participate in the club's season opener, scheduled in just over a fortnight, despite a recent concussion that has ruled him out of an official pre-season match. This development follows Allen's debut in his new club colours during a scratch match against Carlton on Wednesday, where he made an early impact with a goal in the first term.
However, the forward's day ended prematurely due to a head knock, forcing him to sit out the entire last quarter. The club confirmed on Thursday that Allen has entered concussion protocols and will miss the pre-season hit-out with Gold Coast on February 26. Nevertheless, medical staff expect him to be available for Opening Round against the Western Bulldogs on March 7.
Injury Concerns and Recovery Timeline
Allen's first pre-season at the Lions has been interrupted, but he had been building momentum towards Opening Round after recovering from knee surgery that cut short his final year at West Coast in 2025. The 26-year-old has faced injury challenges across his nine-season career, including missing the entire 2022 campaign with a foot issue.
This is not Allen's first experience with concussion; he previously opened up about the harrowing effects of a head injury sustained in 2021, describing himself as "a bit brain dead" during a game against Essendon. At that time, it took him days to feel like himself again after falling on his head in a marking contest. He suffered another concussion later that year against Brisbane, which he described as minor.
Team Impact and Leadership Contributions
The Lions are hopeful that Allen recovers well and is cleared to face the Bulldogs at the Gabba. His return would bolster the reigning premier's attack, alongside returning stars Keidean Coleman and Lincoln McCarthy. Dual Norm Smith Medallist Will Ashcroft praised Allen's impact, noting that he has "made a huge impact" and was named in the club's leadership group in his first season.
Ashcroft highlighted Allen's leadership qualities, stating, "He was a captain of a football club, so he brings a lot in that sense, a leadership sense. But I think that steadiness he provides to our forward line will help loads out down there. I think he's been really impressive on and off the field."
In addition to Allen, Lions dual premiership defender Ryan Lester also sustained a concussion against Carlton and will miss the Suns clash. The club is monitoring both players closely as they prepare for the upcoming season, emphasizing player welfare and recovery protocols.
