GEELONG defender Tom Stewart has been struck down with a groin complaint as the Cats nurse several stars through the early stages of post-Christmas training.

The dual All Australian has been missing from the main group since returning last week and is slowly building his running base during individual sessions.

It has put the 26-year-old's hopes of representing Victoria in the State of Origin bushfire relief match at Marvel Stadium on February 28 in doubt.

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Geelong's first match of the Marsh Community Series comes with a trip to Gold Coast on February 22.

Stewart has been incredibly durable since his stunning debut season in 2017 – missing just five of a possible 73 AFL matches.

The second highest recorded average of players to play more than 50 games 🔢 #StandProud #WeAreGeelong pic.twitter.com/RZIOwIe9sX — Geelong Cats (@GeelongCats) January 8, 2020

He has joined captain Joel Selwood (hamstring) and Mitch Duncan (hip/shoulder) in the rehabilitation group after the pair of senior midfielders underwent post-season surgeries.

Selwood completed individual running during an open training session at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday and is set to increase his loads later this month.

Rising defender Mark O'Connor also suffered a turf toe setback at training last week that will delay his preparations by two to three weeks.

Reliable backman Jake Kolodjashnij was another Cat unsighted during Saturday's session as he battles an ongoing groin issue that has plagued much of his pre-season.

Second-year speedster Jordan Clark completed the bulk of the session without contact, sporting a heavily strapped left elbow that required surgery in September.

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