Four days out from their Season Opener against North Melbourne in Cairns, Gold Coast have a near full squad to select from.

In addition, those players who are currently in the rehabilitation group are expected to be available for selection in the early part of the 2018 Toyota AFL Premiership Season.  

General Manager – Football Operations, Jon Haines, told the Alpha Sport Injury Update Aaron Hall in particular was making good progress following his surgery. 

“It was a pretty simple piece of surgery, he’s got a brace on at the moment on that particular finger,” he said.

“The way he’s going at the moment he’ll be available for selection for Round 2.”

Another SUN advancing through his rehabilitation is Pearce Hanley, who suffered a dislocated shoulder in JLT2. 

“He’s attacking his rehab really well, as we’d expect,” Haines said.

“If you ask Pearce he’s ready to play- but the initial diagnosis is what we’re working to [4/6 weeks recovery]. 

“Pearce will continue on that plan and we’ll asses him week by week.” 

The positive news continues for Peter Wright, who has been working through his recovery meticulously and will be assessed closely over the coming fortnight. 

Gold Coast travel to Cairns on Thursday ahead of their Round 1 match at Cazalys Stadium.

Haines said there was an excitement in the group only the first game of the season could bring.  

“The guys will have a few tune up sessions this week to round off their preparation, there is a really strong sense of excitement,” he said.

“The JLT games were a chance to practise what we’ve been trying to implement over the summer. 

“We’re really looking forward to getting up to Cairns, not only for the game but to interact with our fans and supporters up there.”