Burns return on the cards
02/09/2008 3:08 PM
Scott Burns' corked calf is improving day by day and the Collingwood captain is feeling confident about his selection prospects for Saturday's Elimination Final against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
Burns, who was sidelined for four weeks earlier in the season with a calf strain, likes his prospects of a return to action after just one match on the sidelines because of bruising this time.
"It's really good, it's coming along nicely," said Burns on Tuesday.
"We just step it up from now on but from the history that I've had, I'm really positive."
Coach Mick Malthouse said that Burns and fellow veteran Shane Wakelin who was rested from last Friday night's clash with Fremantle at Subiaco Oval, will be given the chance to declare themselves fit to take on the Crows.
But that same opportunity will not be offered to youngsters Sharrod Wellingham (groin) and Dale Thomas (calf).
According to Malthouse, Thomas and Wellingham, who also missed the Dockers clash, don't yet know their bodies as well as Burns and Wakelin know theirs, and are simply not qualified to assess their own fitness.
"You've got to go with their instincts," said Malthouse of Burns and Wakelin.
"If our medical staff clear him ... then it's up to Scott to say 'I think I can' and if he hesitates, our job is easy."
"If medical clear the player, the player clears himself, then we pick - we don't have it the other way."