A refreshed Jimmy Bartel is all but certain to return for Geelong in Saturday night’s clash with Adelaide at Simonds Stadium.
The Brownlow Medallist was ‘managed’ last round and did not make the trip to Domain Stadium to tackle Fremantle in Perth last Friday night.
It’s the only game Bartel has missed this season, as the veteran edges closer towards his 300-game milestone.
South Australian small forward Cory Gregson also did not play at any level last weekend after serving as the travelling emergency for the Cats’ clash with the Dockers. The 19-year-old will need to push his case for senior selection at training for his first AFL game since Round 14.
Sam Menegola dominated for Geelong’s VFL team against Werribee and could be in the mix to make his long-awaited AFL debut against the Crows. The former Hawk and Docker amassed 46 possessions, nine clearances, nine inside 50ms and kicked two goals in the VFL Cats’ 111-point win over the Tigers.
Former Eagle Scott Selwood could be considered for his first game for his new club after gathering 26 possessions, four clearances and laying five tackles.
Midfielder Darcy Lang was another who had a day out with four goals from 33 possessions. Lang also laid nine tackles and could slot straight back into Geelong’s senior team after being omitted a fortnight ago.
Key tall Nathan Vardy could also could come into the mix, particularly if Lachie Henderson is unavailable due to concussion. Vardy booted two goals from 10 possessions and also contributed in the ruck with 15 hit-outs.
