The Gold Coast SUNS will head into Thursday’s match simulation against Essendon with close to full availability.

Captain Touk Miller has sustained a low-grade hamstring injury which will see him miss the pre-season matches against Essendon and GWS, but will be available for Round 1 against Sydney.

“Touk felt some discomfort in his hamstring on Friday and on assessment, has a mild hamstring injury,” GC SUNS Head Physiotherapist Lindsay Bull said.

“Touk will reintegrate into full training over the next couple of weeks leading into the start of the season”

Brandon Ellis has also been managing a calf complaint and will be sidelined for two weeks as he builds towards Round 1 availability.

Wil Powell continues to ramp up his involvement in a bid to return from a hamstring injury, running solidly in training.

The 23-year-old won’t play against Essendon or GWS but will be assessed for availability in the week leading into Round 1.

Lachie Weller has integrated into full training and is on track to return in the early rounds of the season, though won’t play in either of the pre-season matches.

Connor Budarick is taking strides in his ACL recovery and is on track for a mid-season return.