Luke Russell will be recalled to the senior team for this week’s game against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.

Russell injured his hip at training last Wednesday and as a result the in-form SUN missed Saturday’s match against Adelaide at Metricon Stadium.

The 21-year old had been playing his best football yet in the month leading up to the Crows match.

Having predominantly been used as the sub in the first half of the season, Russell was introduced at half time of the Round 9 match against Hawthorn at the MCG, collecting an impressive 15 disposals in the second half against the League leaders.

Russell continued his good form against the Cats at Skilled Stadium the following week and in his three matches before missing last week with injury had racked up a total of 65 possessions and booted 3 goals.

General Manager – Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft told goldcoastfc.com.au that Russell had become an important player for the GC SUNS.

“Luke’s last month has been really impressive.

“It came as no surprise to us that he has been able to produce football like that and we are confident that despite missing Saturday’s match he will perform at the same level again this weekend against the Lions,” Ashcroft said.

Ashcroft also confirmed that Charlie Dixon remained a chance of getting over his niggling ankle injury for QClash 6.

“Charlie is still a chance to play this weekend, he has commenced running so we will just have to wait and see how it responds over the coming days.”

Meanwhile Jesse Lonergan is also on the verge of returning from a hamstring injury.

“Jesse is progression really well, he is a young powerful athlete, so we wont take any chances with him, he will play when he is ready to go, Ashcroft said.

GC SUNS Injury Update
Clay Cameron – Hip – Test
Charlie Dixon – Ankle – Test
Jesse Lonergan – Hamstring – Test
Tom Lynch – Knee – Indefinite
Brandon Matera – Ankle – Indefinite
Michael Rischitelli – Elbow – Indefinite
Luke Russell – Hip – Available
Henry Schade – Ankle – 1- 2 weeks
Zac Smith – Knee – Season