Adelaide is optimistic that key forward Darcy Fogarty will overcome a lingering back injury in time for Sunday's match against Richmond at the MCG, while captain Jordan Dawson has returned to training.
Fogarty's Return on the Horizon
Fogarty has been sidelined since round four due to a back problem, but the Crows are hopeful he will be available for selection this weekend. The 26-year-old is expected to replace Taylor Walker, who is out with a hamstring injury. Meanwhile, Nick Murray is the frontrunner to take Jordon Butts' spot after Butts suffered a groin injury.
Adelaide defender Wayne Milera expressed confidence in Fogarty's abilities, stating, "We know what Fog brings. He brings his leadership and then his ability to play forward and kick goals for us and be that sort of focal point up there." However, Milera added that if Fogarty does not play, other players are ready to step up, noting the strong performances at SANFL level.
Dawson Back in Action
Skipper Jordan Dawson trained on Monday at Adelaide's West Lakes headquarters. Dawson has had a challenging period, missing a one-point win over St Kilda following the death of his elder brother. He returned for a 52-point loss to Brisbane but then missed the one-point victory over arch-rivals Port Adelaide.
Milera also reflected on the thrilling Showdown victory, where wingman Brayden Cook kicked the match-winner with just 12 seconds remaining. "It was crazy. It was an awesome, awesome moment for the footy club, an awesome moment for Cooky and the team," Milera said. "It was a great win and something that I'll remember for a long time."
The win lifted last year's minor premiers to a 4-4 win-loss record ahead of upcoming games against Richmond, North Melbourne (home), and Hawthorn (away) before the mid-season bye. "It gets us back even - four and four - and allows us to launch again and go for the rest of the season," Milera added.
