Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks has provided an update on suspended forward Taylor Walker, revealing that the 31-year-old is a chance to return for the Crows' Round 4 match against Essendon.
Walker hasn't played yet in 2022 after being handed a six-week suspension last year after making a racist comment during a SANFL match. The star forward will be available for selection in Round 4.
Speaking to SEN's Crunch Time, Nicks revealed that Walker has been training well but that the Crows are hesitant to name the former captain given his lack of match time.
“Yes, it is (possible that he’ll play in Round 4),” Nicks said on SEN Crunch Time.
“We’ve had a lot of talks (about this)… The issue we have is he hasn’t played any footy, so not being able to do any practice matches, there is a match fitness you just can’t get other from playing matches.
“But I’ve watched him train and I think he’s doing everything he can to make a statement.
“I think he’s really disappointed that he hasn’t been able to play, as we all are, and so I just haven’t seen anyone train like he has.
“His lungs have burned, he’s worked so hard.”
Walker played 17 games for the Crows last season and kicked 48 goals, his highest tally since 2017.
“What he (Walker) gives to us from an on-field leadership point of view is invaluable as well, so we’re going to have a look at that,” Nicks added.
“It’s great, what a great challenge for us now, to be looking at selection and struggling to take someone out.
“That’s where you want to be.
“We had a performance at SANFL level that we’re really proud of, the guys had a really good hit out, we’ve got guys stepping up who want to play at the highest level.
“This is what brings success when your entire group of 44 are playing good footy.”