Jack Steven in top shape ahead of AFL finals

Jack Steven’s condition has come into question this year, but assistant coach Matthew Scarlett has given a glowing endorsement of how the Cats recruit is tracking.

Jack Steven at training. Picture: Michael Klein

Jack Steven is “looking as good as he has for a couple of years” as the Geelong recruit attempts to retain his spot for finals.

Steven’s condition has been questioned this year and the club has been careful to manage his match minutes and work loads.

But Cats assistant coach Matthew Scarlett said Steven, 30, was in his best shape since joining the club in last year’s trade period.

“One thing you will notice with Jack out on the ground is how good he’s looking,” Scarlett told K rock.

Tom Atkins taken in a tackle. Picture: Chris Hyde

“He’s obviously had a different program to most of our players. He was never going to play every single game this year and he’s obviously missed a fair bit of footy.

“He’s had a really big training block in the last couple of weeks and he’s looking as good as he has for a couple of years.

“(He’s) running really well, he’s training really well.

“He’s doing a good job with his body. He’s looking fantastic.”

Steven has played only eight games this year and Sunday’s game against Sydney was the fifth time he has been called into the side.

Tom Atkins missed with chest soreness.

It would seem the final spot in Geelong’s midfield will be between Atkins and Steven.

Scarlett said Atkins’ setback was unrelated to his rib injury earlier in the season when he missed five games.

“Tommy just pulled up a little bit sore just around his chest area after the game last week,” he said.

“I don’t think it was the exact same spot. It’s unfortunate for Tommy. He was just starting to get going.”

Originally published as Jack Steven in top shape ahead of AFL finals