Carlton midfielder Sam Walsh will face Adelaide next week if he gets through next week's training block unscathed.
The Blues young gun has been hindered by a back injury since the second half of the pre-season, with the club taking a cautious approach with the Rising Star winner in his recovery.
Walsh's ailment was reassessed following the club's Round 2 bye, with the prolific midfielder having since returned to training with the main group.
The 23-year-old has continued his program this weekend while teammates prepare for a clash with an undefeated Fremantle outfit in Adelaide, giving himself the best chance to face the Crows next Saturday.
Speaking to media on Friday in Adelaide, Michael Voss said he was "comfortable" the patient approach will pay off for Walsh in the long run.
The Blues coach confirmed Walsh will play in Round 5 if he completes next week's training.
"Sam's progressing really well. He's back into main training, we anticipate if he gets through training next week that he'll play," Voss said.
"He's been able to advance a few things in his rehab, it's been a good plan, he's stuck to it, he's been patient, so hopefully we're seeing him on the park next week."
It'll be a welcomed return for the Blues, who are also without a loss over their first three matches.
The Victorian powerhouse are currently without forward trio David Cuningham (calf), Jack Martin (hamstring) and Jesse Motlop (hamstring) for the coming weeks at least, while defender Caleb Marchbank will miss Gather Round through concussion.
The Blues could go to 4-0 with a win over the Dockers on Saturday, with a cavalry to return in the next month for the contending club.
