Season over for St Kilda tall as quartet eye elimination final

St Kilda tall Jack Hayes' season is over following a calf setback and a cleanout of his knee, while Saints senior coach Ross Lyon has up to four players available for selection for the club's first final following recent injury concerns.

Hayes made his return from foot and knee issues in Round 24 against Brisbane - his first appearance at AFL level since April of last year.

The mature-aged recruit's comeback was set to bolster Lyon's key position stocks ahead of their September pursuit, however any chance of a finals showing for the South Australian has been quashed following further ailments.

St Kilda revealed on Tuesday that Hayes felt the effects of his recent knee issues after the loss to the Lions, with further consultation with specialists and a subsequent calf strain forcing Hayes to the sidelines for the rest of the season.

“It was great to see Jack back at AFL level in Round 24, but his recovery since that game hasn't been linear," acting Saints football boss David Misson said in a club update.

"He was quite sore after the game, but then subsequently strained a calf in training last week.

"Given the timing and following consultation with specialists, we've elected to send Jack in for a clean out of his knee now, which will also give him time to address any calf concerns.

"We don't anticipate this to delay Jack's off or pre-season, so look forward to welcoming him back to the main group later this year."

In lighter news, the Saints are set to have defensive duo Josh Battle and Dougal Howard available for their Elimination Final against GWS on Saturday.

Battle was been cleared in exiting concussion protocols after suffering a head knock against the Lions two weeks ago, as has young forward Anthony Caminiti.

Howard has been deemed fit to face the Giants after battling a recent wrist injury, while veteran midfielder Seb Ross still needs to prove his fitness ahead of the weekend as he nurses a recent hamstring issue.

“We're pleased to have Dougal and Josh available for this week's final," Misson said.

“The pre-finals bye has been beneficial as we look to strengthen our list and have as many players as possible available for the upcoming month.

“We're also hopeful that Seb Ross will be available for selection, he'll just need to pass a few fitness tests this week.”

St Kilda could have midfield pair Zak Jones (knee) and Daniel McKenzie (calf) available for selection in the coming weeks should the Saints' season remain alive.

Saturday's Elimination Final against GWS will take place at the MCG at 3:20pm (AEST).