Bulldogs’ defender Ryan Gardner is on track to return for this Thursday’s fixture after recovering from elbow surgery last month.

The 25-year-old will need to get through tomorrow’s main training before being considered for selection.

“Ryan has progressed well over the last month since requiring some surgery on his elbow fracture,” Head of Sports Medicine, Chris Bell, said.

“He has been largely training with some modifications around his exposure to contact.

“If Ryan gets through full training this week - like we expect – he will return to availability.”

The red, white and blue could be further boosted by the return of Rory Lobb and Adam Treloar for the clash against the Lions, with the pair listed as tests ahead of main training on Tuesday.

“They washed out the small loose bodies that were causing issues in Rory’s ankle joint,” Bell said.

“We are now fighting the clock to turn him around in time for the game this Thursday.

“We want to make sure that if Rory does play, that he is at 100% - so will put him through his paces at training tomorrow.

“Adam had some minor hamstring tightness off the back of the round one game, and has progressed well over the last 72 hours and completed a solid training session on Saturday.

“For him to be a chance to play – he will need to prove his full fitness and ability to hit top speed tomorrow.

“Adam has a significant history of soft tissue injury – so we won’t be taking any risk if he hasn’t fully recovered.”

In exciting news, both Tim O’Brien and Arthur Jones should also return to availability this week, while top draft pick Jedd Busslinger has been confirmed to play for Footscray VFL.

“This will be Jedd’s first game of footy in nine months after requiring two shoulder reconstructions on his right shoulder during his under 18 year,” Bell said.

“Jedd has been incredibly professional and diligent his lengthy period in rehab – and we are excited to see him pull on the jumper this week.”

Injury List

Jedd Busslinger (shoulder): Available
Ryan Gardner (elbow): Test
Adam Treloar (hamstring): Test
Rory Lobb (ankle): Test
Tim O’Brien (hamstring): Test
Arthur Jones (groin): Test
Cody Weightman (groin): 2-4 weeks
Laith Vandermeer (leg): 2-4 weeks
Roarke Smith(foot): 3-5 weeks
Harvey Gallagher (hamstring): 4-6 weeks
Dom Bedendo (groin): Indefinite