Carlton spearhead Harry McKay is reportedly set to return from personal leave this weekend to face the Eagles at Gather Round in an important boost to the Blues' line-up.
McKay was ruled a late out against Hawthorn with illness, but the truth soon came to light that the star forward was dealing with personal issues off field and required time away from the game.
McKay would also miss the clash against the Bulldogs and opt to not partake in the blockbuster Collingwood match, however would return through the VFL where less scrutinising eyes were on the 27-year-old, allowing him to begin his return to football.
Although no decision has been finalised, McKay will fly to Adelaide with teammates and is likely to be selected for the match against the Eagles on Saturday, according to Nine's Tom Morris.
The former Coleman medallist will be a welcome boost to the Blues' line-up pairing with star Charlie Curnow and in-form third options Brodie Kemp and Lewis Young, who have had their own starring performances during McKay's absence.
It presents a tasty proposition for the winless Blues, who have struggled to convert inside 50 entries in their opening four matches. However, with multiple good tall targets, plus facing a side that conceded an outlandish 28 marks inside 50 in Round 4, Carlton's prospects of a win in 2025 have never looked brighter.
McKay took three marks inside 50 against Richmond in Round 1 and converted one goal from two scoring shots.
Carlton face West Coast at Adelaide Oval on Saturday, beginning at 1:20pm AEST.
