Sydney Swans insist there is no injury cloud hanging over Lance Franklin ahead of Geelong clash

LANCE Franklin suffered a corked thigh in the first quarter of the Swans’ elimination- final win over Essendon, but the club insists they have no concerns ahead of Gelong this Friday.

Lance Franklin is not giving Swans cause for concern.

SYDNEY superstar Lance Franklin is expected to train on Wednesday, with the AFL club reiterating he is in no doubt for Friday’s semi-final against Geelong at the MCG.

Franklin suffered a corked thigh in the first quarter of the Swans’ elimination- final win over Essendon.

He booted four goals during the second term, having spent quarter-time on an exercise bike, but was put on ice at three-quarter time.

“We have training on Wednesday and he’ll train, and play on Friday night,” Swans football manager Tom Harley said.

“Lance has recovered really well.

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Buddy’s leg was heavily strapped against Essendon

“When you’re assessing injuries during a game, the fact players can play through the games is a really positive sign.

“He’s an absolute pro in what he does post-game.” Young defender Lewis Melican, who was a last-minute scratching from the Swans’ elimination final because of a tight quad muscle, could be in the mix to return against the Cats.

“He was touch and go last week but couldn’t quite get up,” Harley said. “He’s been running, so we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do on Wednesday.

“That’s our final session, we expect him to train and be available for selection, so we’ll address it then.”

Swans coach John Longmire reiterated his colleague sentiments insisting Buddy was “just fine”.

Speaking about injury concerns, he said: “Lance is fine, he’s expected to train tomorrow.

“Melican has pulled up well & will also train, we will make a call after training.”

When asked about the Cats, Longmire added: “What we do know is history shows if you finish top four you’re a good team, Geelong have some great players, it will be a hot contest.

“Just like every week, whoever and wherever we play, we have to make sure we put our best foot forward.

“We have enormous respect for the Cats so we go into the game knowing we have to play our best to match them.

“Finals are an arm wrestle. You need to compete hard for four quarters.”

Originally published as Sydney Swans insist there is no injury cloud hanging over Lance Franklin ahead of Geelong clash