Luckless Fremantle big man Michael Apeness is nearing a return to football after two knee injuries, according to Freo sports science manager Jason Weber.

The 200cm key forward is listed as a test in this week’s HBF Injury Update, and Weber said he anticipated Apeness being available for selection for Peel Thunder this week.

“Michael’s had a really long recovery but he’s on his way back,” Weber said.

“He’s trained well this week and we look forward to getting him on the selection table for this weekend.”

In the mix: round seven

Weber said ruckman Aaron Sandilands has made a positive recovery from surgery, and is enthusiastic as he targets a return from a rib injury sustained in round three.

“Aaron’s been progressing really well post-surgery,” Weber said.

“He’s had a bit of a run today so he’s certainly on the way back.

“We’ve introduced some strength, so we’re positive that we’ll get him up and going and he’s very keen.”

Match day information v GWS

Freo leadership group members Nat Fyfe (leg) and Michael Johnson (knee) both had successful surgeries last week, and we’re in high spirits, Weber said.

“Both are doing really well,” he said.

“At this stage we’re still working with the surgeons on what the end point will be for both of them, but both (Fyfe and Johnson) are up and about.”



