Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh is set to make his long-awaited return to the Blues' side on Saturday when Michael Voss' men take on Adelaide.

Walsh has been placed on a modified training program for most of the year after dealing with a back issue midway through the club's pre-season, with the former No.1 pick missing his side's first four matches of the season.

The club has taken a cautious approach with their young star, who missed the end of 2022 and the opening month of last year's campaign with a similar injury.

In his final hurdle for a return this season, Walsh needed to get through Carlton's main training session on Thursday to be cleared to face the Crows, withย 7 News reporter Theo Doropoulos confirming the 23-year-old is set to play at Marvel Stadium this weekend.

Walsh's return comes as the Blues lose half-forward Lachie Fogarty through suspension, while midfielder Elijah Hollands will need to prove his fitness following an adductor injury sustained during Carlton's Gather Round win over Fremantle.

Defender Zac Williams was also hampered during Round 4 but was cleared of any damage to his leg post-game and is expected to face Adelaide.

Walsh's comeback is a friendly boost for the Blues, who are undefeated heading into Round 5 - where they face a winless Adelaide outfit.

Carlton will confirm their 23-player squad for Saturday's game at 6:20pm (AEST) on Thursday.