Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin has confirmed that Clayton Oliver won't feature in Round 12's clash against Carlton as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Oliver hasn't featured for the Demons since Round 10 against Port Adelaide when he suffered the injury, with initial concerns that the star could be sidelined for a considerable amount of time.
Speaking to media on Tuesday though, Goodwin revealed that the 25-year-old was closing in on a return, but that it wouldn't be this week.
"He's progressing really well ... he won't play, but we're really confident he'll play the week after," Goodwin said.
"He's too important a player for us to take a really big risk – and Friday night would be a risk.
"We get a pretty extended break the week after. He'll definitely play (against Collingwood)."
Oliver has played ten games so far this season, averaging 33 disposals, 6.9 clearances and 5.6 tackles per game.
The 25-year-old's likely return will be against the Pies in the King's Birthday clash, with the Demons then to have the bye before facing Geelong.
Melbourne currently sit fourth on the AFL ladder with a 7-4 win-loss record.