A host of Bulldog big names are set to return to full training early in the New Year after nearing the end of their rehabilitation programs.

Emerging key forward Aaron Naughton (knee) and new recruit Alex Keath (ankle) are expected to return to the main training group in January, following off season surgeries.

“Aaron has progressed nicely through the off-season, after having surgery to repair the knee injury he sustained in our final against the Giants,” said Bulldogs’ Physical Performance Manager Chris Bell.

“He is back running and we will be building up his football load to re integrate back into training with the squad through January.

“Alex has been incredibly diligent and professional from the moment he walked in the door.

“At the end of last year, he had surgery to repair a lower leg injury. His rehab has gone really smoothly to date – he has progressed his running loads, has built some speed and is starting to be exposed to some football drills.”

Experienced trio Mitch Wallis (ankle), Lachie Hunter (shoulder) and Tom Liberatore (knee) are also stepping up their training loads after going under the knife following the 2019 season.

However, defender Taylor Duryea will have a slower start to 2020, as he recovers from hip surgery.

“Taylor had surgery to repair a groin injury over the off-season, which all went smoothly,” Bell said.

“He is progressing really well, however this type of surgery comes with a lengthy rehab timeframe.

“He remains on track to resume running in January, before building back into football training loads in February.”