Carlton's midfield looks set to earn an injection of talent ahead of their do or die date against Collingwood on Sunday following Adam Cerra's ability to complete training without incident.
While Cerra was a late withdrawal due to a tight adductor muscle ahead of the Blues' deflating loss to the Demons last Saturday night, the former Docker has firmed as a likely starter for the sold-out fixture.
According to reports from Riley Beveridge ofย AFL Media,ย the 22-year-old was able to partake in a litany of drills at Princes Park on Wednesday, however, all were completed away from the main group.
The recent import kept himself busy by lightly jogging laps of the club's headquarters and upping his handball touch alongside Carlton's mass of rehabilitating names.
With the opening bounce of the most important Blues/Pies battle since their meeting during the 1988 qualifying final still some four days away, Cerra will be afforded the better part of the week to ramp up his preparations.
Though Cerra produced just 16 touches and zero inside 50s after being hurried back into Michael Voss' senior side ahead of Round 16, those within Carlton's four walls are said to believe that the Eastern Ranges product will be fit and firing by Sunday afternoon.
Zac Williams' name is also in the selection mix after appearing to have overcome an injured calf in time for the final day stoush.
The former Giant trained alongside the bulk of Voss' senior side and reportedly has eyes on a starting role against the Pies, despite not featuring at the level since mid-May.
Beveridge also claimed that defensive duo Sam Docherty and Jacob Weitering failed to take part in the main session, still, neither is in any doubt to line up on Collingwood's conventicle of forwards.
A return for fellow new Blue George Hewett also looms large, with the hardnosed ex-Swan taking part in drills with the main group.
Still, given the nature of Hewett's ailing back, it remains a near certainty that the South Australian will watch Sunday's clash from the stands.
Although a series of results across the course of the weekend have the ability to shape the appearance of September, the equation remains simple for those on Royal Parade - win, and you're in.
A victory over arch-enemies Collingwood will take on even greater significance given a loss for Craig McRae's side should be enough to quell any chance of claiming a double chance.
The opening bounce for the undisputed game of the round is scheduled for 3:20pm (AEST) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
