Jack cleared to play Swans' AFL opener

Mar 23, 2017 - 8:04 AM Kieren Jack has overcome a hip problem just in time for Sydney's season-opening AFL showdown against Port Adelaide, while Sam Naismith will join Kurt Tippet in the ruck.

Jack will play at the SCG on Saturday after proving himself fit in Thursday's training session, and coach John Longmire was confident the former co-captain won't be hindered by a lack of pre-season game time.

"He ran really hard and did all that was required of him, and has done for the past week," Longmire said.

"We just needed him to tick the box of training really hard today.

"He got through it fine and pulled up well so he'll be right."

In the absence of injured Darcy Cameron, Naismith has been selected ahead of Callum Sinclair to partner Tippett.

The pair will attempt to nullify the impact of Paddy Ryder, who's been performing for Port on return from a year-long doping ban.

"Ryder is a really good player and has been in really good form over the pre-season. We're conscious of that," Longmire said.

"His jump is huge at the moment. He's jumping really high at the centre bounces in particular but also his ruck work around the ground has been of a high standard.

"He's got terrific, soft hands, so he gives their midfielders first use of the ball and they've got some really strong midfielders. If he gives them first use of the ball it makes it a real battle."

The news wasn't so positive for key back Aliir Aliir, who will be held back in the NEAFL at least another week as he returns from a toe issue, with Jeremy Laidler likely to play centre half-back.

"He (Aliir) had a bit of a delayed start," said Longmire, who will oversee his 150th game.

"He's very important for us, but we want him to come into the program and play really good senior football, not just senior football."

As expected, Longmire confirmed Isaac Heeney (glandular fever) would not be rushed back for round two, while fellow key players Jarrad McVeigh (calf), Gary Rohan (back) and Tom Papley (knee) are also out injured.

Source: AAP