Geelong provides update on Bailey Smith, Cam Guthrie and Shannon Neale

Geelong has provided its first update on star midfielder Bailey Smith after he missed the game against the Gold Coast while the news is promising for an emerging big man as a veteran faces another injury challenge.

Bailey Smith missed Saturday’s game with hamstring tightness. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Geelong superstar Bailey Smith remains in contention to face Essendon this weekend.

The former Bulldog was a late withdrawal before Saturday’s win against the Gold Coast Suns with hamstring tightness and was replaced in the team by Ted Clohesy.

In its weekly injury report on Tuesday, the Cats said they elected to take a “cautious approach” with Smith and will assess his availability later in the week.

Big man Shannon Neale could also face the Bombers at the MCG on Saturday despite being subbed out against the Suns with an ankle injury.

“Shannon’s ankle has improved significantly since Saturday and scans on Monday cleared him of serious injury. He will be a test to play this weekend,” the club said.

Veteran Cam Guthrie was withdrawn from the first quarter in the VFL game after experiencing “calf symptoms” and has since responded well to treatment.

The Cats are yet to decide on when he will next play.

Ruckman Toby Conway is also nearing a return to action with the Cats earmarking a possible VFL game against Collingwood in Round 17, which is five weeks away.

“Toby continues to progress his loads and is now integrated into football drills,” the club said.

Jack Bowes is also listed as a test for this weekend as he aims to return from a hamstring injury.

Originally published as Geelong provides update on Bailey Smith, Cam Guthrie and Shannon Neale