Sydney key forward Logan McDonald has taken a positive step in his recovery from post-season ankle surgery after reintegrating into team skills training.

McDonald has battled with the persistent ankle issue throughout the 2024 campaign and is likely to miss the club's Opening Round clash with Hawthorn.

The 22-year-old will miss the upcoming pre-season clashes against GWS and Gold Coast.

Captain Callum Mills will also be absent from the match simulation against the Giants, as will Jake Lloyd, Harry Cunningham and Tom Papley.

Sydney stalwart earns contract extenstion
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JULY 22: Harry Cunningham of the Swans runs with the ball during the 2023 AFL Round 19 match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Sydney Swans at Optus Stadium on July 22, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Mills is currently managing mild plantar fasciitis but is in line to face the Suns in the final tune-up before the 2025 season opener.

Lloyd suffered bone bruising in the club's match simulation and is hopeful for a practice match before the Hawthorn game while Papley has been managing a low-grade ankle sprain for the past fortnight.

Cunningham injured a ligament in his left foot and will be in a boot until further assessments provide some clarity.

Youngster Patrick Snell will target Round 2 as a return date after suffering a moderate-grade hamstring strain.

Jack Buller continues to recover from an AC joint sprain, joining in full training and could return to play within the next fortnight.