Carlton are confident veteran defender Sam Docherty has avoided a significant setback after being subbed out of Saturday's win over Melbourne.

The Blues backman had his night come to an abrupt end at three-quarter time against the Demonsย after suffering an apparent calf injury. The 29-year-old had a fantastic first three quarters, finishing with 22 disposals and a goal.

Docherty has had a stellar 2023 campaign and has been a key factor in the Blues' turnaround amidst fan and media concerns over their performances earlier in the season. Coach Michael Voss has done a remarkable job in revitalising his side whilst the 'Baggers' faithful have faced a roller-coaster campaign to now be looking towards a finals with excitement.

Carlton's head of football Brad Lloyd provided an update on Docherty's injury on Monday, revealing the club holds high hopes for their former skipper.ย 

โ€œHe got more of a kick in the calf. We'll have a better look at it this morning when we get in,โ€ Lloyd told SEN Breakfast.

โ€œIt's very minor, just a bit of a kick in the calf. It's one of those ones, it was a bit precautionary.

โ€œI know โ€˜Vossy' and Andrew Russell had a chat at three-quarter time to see how he was going and decided to keep him going then sub him as the quarter went on.

โ€œI don't think it will be anything major.โ€

Despite the injury to Docherty, it was all smiles for the Blues as they extended their winning streak to eight on the trot. A final-minute shot on goal from Demon Christian Petracca was controversially deemed a behind with insufficient evidence provided to overturn the call.

The win has seen the Blues all but guaranteed a finals berth, their first since 2013.

Carlton can completely secure a finals spot on Sunday as only one more win is required. They take on the Gold Coast Suns at Heritage Bank Stadium at 2:10 PM AEST.ย