Dockers hopeful of Bennell return in 2017

Jun 21, 2017 - 5:31 PM Fremantle haven't given up hope of Harley Bennell returning this AFL season after a series of issues on and off the field.

The 24-year-old has proven to be a spectacular trade bust for Fremantle, with persistent calf injuries keeping him from playing a game for the Dockers since joining them from Gold Coast at the end of 2015.

He has also faced scrutiny for a number of off-field misdemeanours and was recently ordered by the Dockers to undergo counselling.

But the 2010 No.2 draft pick - a hugely-talented midfielder at his best - has returned to training with the Dockers' main group, and teammate Lachie Neale believes he's a solid chance of playing at some point this year.

"I think we are a really good chance," Neale told Fox Footy.

"Harley's obviously working his way through his rehab program after his latest setback.

"But from all reports he's coming along really well and it would be awesome to see him out there with us because we know what a talent and how good a player he is."

Bennell was fined $10,000 - half of which was suspended for 12 months - and forced to undergo counselling following his bizarre behaviour while watching a WAFL game last month.

The 24-year-old twice interrupted the three-quarter time huddle of the match between Peel Thunder and Swan Districts to speak to his cousin Traye Bennell.

Bennell was also kicked off a Gold Coast-bound flight before it departed in April because he was intoxicated.

The Dockers are likely to tread cautiously with Bennell's recovery but he could make a WAFL appearance within the next two to three weeks.

Neale said the Dockers had rallied behind Bennell and made sure to support him every way they could in a bid to keep his spirits up.

"He's obviously been in rehab for a long time now and it's never easy, and no one likes to see guys spend long periods of time in there," he said.

"But to his credit, he's worked extremely hard once again and he's looking really fit and ready to go soon."

Source: AAP