Melbourne Demons

Melbourne make Oliver call ahead of Richmond clash, recruit set for first game

The Demons have provided the latest on three senior players ahead of Round 7.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Melbourne have deemed star midfielder Clayton Oliver is ready to face Richmond on Wednesday night following minor finger surgery, while two more Demons are set to feature this week after overcoming injuries.

Oliver underwent surgery following the club's Round 5 loss to Brisbane, with the Demons deciding to use their early-season bye to give the 26-year-old the best chance to be fit for Anzac Day eve.

After returning to training over the past week, Oliver has been given the green light to face the Tigers at the MCG on Wednesday for Melbourne's return game.

Demons high-performance boss Selwyn Griffith confirmed to Melbourne Media that Oliver will line-up against the Tigers after pressing well to surgery.

“Clayton got the all-clear to sweat and integrate into training at the end of last week,” Griffith said.

Clayton Oliver is attended to by trainiers during Melbourne's open training session at Gosch's Paddock, Melbourne in 2022 (Photo by Cameron Grimes/Zero Digital Sports)

“So, he trained really well and is available for selection for this week against Richmond.”

The Demons could also recall defender Marty Hore, who has missed the past month due to a fractured thumb.

Melbourne's Round 6 bye has aided Hore's plans to return from the setback, with the Demons backman joining Oliver in being available to take on the Tigers.

“Marty has integrated back into training seamlessly and has progressed really well,” Griffith added.

“So, he will also be available for selection this week.”

Demons recruit Shane McAdam is in line to play his first fame in the red and blue since coming to Victoria from Adelaide over the off-season.

A significant hamstring issue has sidelined McAdam since the pre-season, with the medium-sized forward set to feature for Casey at VFL level on Wednesday.

“Shane has done a power of work over the last couple of weeks,” Griffith said.

“He's integrated into the main group, and we're excited to see him play with the VFL this week on Wednesday.”

Key forward Ben Brown will reportedly miss the match, with the Demons veteran to be one of two outs for Simon Goodwin's side.

According to 7 News reporter Mitch Cleary, Brown won't be named for Melbourne when teams are announced on Tuesday evening.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 17: Ben Brown and Tom McDonald of the Demons celebrate a goal during the round 18 AFL match between Melbourne Demons and Hawthorn Hawks at Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 17, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

His absence will see the Demons make at least two changes given Christian Salem's hamstring injury in Round 5.

Melbourne will recall Kysaiah Pickett from suspension, while Hore firms as a chance to replace Salem in defence.

Melbourne's AFL side face Richmond at the MCG on Wednesday night at 7:25pm (AEST).

Published by
Mitch Keating