It’s been an “encouraging first week” back at training for the Western Bulldogs players, according to coach Luke Beveridge.

The Bulldogs ticked off three non-contact training days this week, and are on track to be ready for the 2020 AFL season to resume in three weeks.

“They’ve come back in really good order.  They’ve worked hard while they’ve been away from the Club,” Beveridge told the media on Friday.

“They’ve followed their programs, and we’re pretty happy with the way they’ve returned.

“It’s allowed us to train at a pretty good level this week, and get some effective training in, albeit in smaller groups.

“It’s an encouraging first week.  Next week we’ll ramp it up again.

“Obviously there’s not long now until Round 2, so we’ll make sure we build it up in the right way.” 

One Bulldog who will be keen to impress on the training track is Tom Liberatore, who missed Round 1 with a knee injury but has worked hard while in isolation to get himself ready for a return to senior action.

“He’s in that boat as far as trying to do whatever he can to press for the 22 that’s picked for Round 2,” Beveridge said.

“We need to look after his knees.  He’s had some trauma there.  He’s got through the week in pretty good order.

“We’ll see how we go when it comes to that Round 2 side as to whether or not he’s in there.” 

Early next week, the AFL is expected to announce the next block of 4-6 games in the resumption of the season, which is scheduled to start on June 11.