Bennell to make Dockers debut in AFL

Aug 16, 2017 - 6:26 AM Fremantle coach Ross Lyon says he won't be expecting miracles from Harley Bennell when the prized recruit makes his long-awaited AFL return against Richmond on Sunday.

Bennell has been plagued by calf issues since coming to Fremantle from Gold Coast at the end of 2015, and is yet to play a senior match for the Dockers.

But he has been given the green light to return to AFL ranks after making it through four WAFL hit-outs unscathed.

Lyon knows the move isn't without risks, but he's confident Bennell's body will be able to hold up at the elite level.

He said the fact Sunday's game was in Perth and Bennell's family can come along to watch it were also factors in the decision.

"It's a good story," Lyon said on Wednesday.

"We could hold him back another week, but it's a marginal difference.

"He's overcome some significant challenges in rehab over a long period of time and it talks volumes to his character of hard work and resilience.

"Clearly he had some moments where he wobbled and was devastated, but it's a real step forward."

Bennell played exclusively as a forward during his recent WAFL stint, and he will play the same role against the Tigers at Domain Stadium on Sunday.

If he pulls up well, Bennell will also play in the season-ending clash with Essendon at Etihad Stadium, before returning for Peel Thunder's finals campaign in the WAFL.

"We're aiming for it to be a longer journey than just this," Lyon said.

"There will be a bit of hype about it (his return) but we don't expect miracles. But he certainly brings some quality into the team.

"He's got real belief in himself and he doesn't need too much room or too many possessions to be dangerous on the scoreboard."

Star midfielder Lachie Neale has been ruled out with groin soreness that he has battled for most of the season, but Hayden Crozier is available for selection after recovering from concussion.

Lyon said it was important for his side to bounce back strongly from last week's 104-point flogging at the hands of Sydney.

Source: AAP