Christian Salem reveals extent of thyroid problem as Clayton Oliver eyes return

A Brownlow Medal favourite upped the ante in his push to return as a premiership-winning teammate revealed the extent of his own health issues.

Clayton Oliver is itching to return. Picture: Michael Klein

Premiership-winning Melbourne defender Christian Salem has revealed he lost 5kg at the end of pre-season when a thyroid problem flared up and he’s having regular blood tests to keep the issue under control.

Salem has played the past two games for the Demons after his start to the season was delayed by the thyroid issue, which can impact a person’s heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight.

The 27-year-old, who also only managed 13 games in 2022, said he was “on top” of the issue now but conceded he had to be vigilant with regular medication and testing.

“I’ve had two things with my thyroid and my knee,” he said of the issues that have contributed to his lack of game time.

“My knee wasn’t too bad because you can have a return date and do the rehab, but the thyroid stuff is a bit tricky.

“It was a wait and see, with regular blood tests and I lost about 5kg right at the end of pre-season, which isn‘t ideal. It’s been a bit tricky.

“I’m on top of it now. I’m not too sure why it spiked, but I’m on medication to keep my levels balanced and I have regular blood tests.”

Christian Salem is on medication for a thyroid issue. Picture: Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

While Salem is fit and firing for the Demons, superstar midfielder Clayton Oliver remains a curious case.

He was on the training track on Monday, continuing to rehabilitate a hamstring injury that even the club conceded it didn’t know the severity of or how long it would keep him sidelined.

Oliver, a four-time club best and fairest, has only missed two matches through injury in the past six seasons, and Salem said his “restless” teammate would be pressing hard to get back as soon as possible.

Oliver took part in the main session on Monday, which was a light one, and did grab at his hamstring a few times, but a return against Carlton on Friday could still be on the cards.

“He’s going well, I can tell you that,” Salem said.

“I’m not too sure in terms of timeline, but I know he’s just going to keep ticking boxes.

Clayton Oliver is restless to return. Picture: Michael Klein

“I’m sure everyone can see that he probably is restless, but that’s part of footy I guess.

“He’s been pretty lucky, touch wood, in terms of injuries and that sort of stuff, so it’s just a small stint for him and I’m sure he’ll be back soon.”

Melbourne has lost back-to-back games by a combined margin of just 11 points to Port Adelaide and Fremantle and has a 7-4 record after 11 rounds this season.