Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale has been impressed with the way Eric Hipwood has performed in training and says he has put himself forward to play against West Coast on Saturday night.
The Lions are priced at 15/8 to reach the 2022 AFL grand final and having Hipwood back from long-term injury can only be a good thing for the season ahead.
ACL injury
Hipwood has not played since damaging his ACL against St Kilda in July of last year. However his rehabilitation has gone well and he has been looking sharp in training.
Neale has been impressed and says the player is itching to get back out on the park.
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"I've seen him come back and be the same Eric Hipwood he was 12 months ago on the training track," Neale told reporters.
"There was a match sim we did, about 10 minutes' worth, probably two weeks ago and he was playing in the reserves side against the AFL side, and he dominated. He's looking good, he's looking sharp.
"I'm not sure if he comes straight in or has to play a little bit of VFL first, but it's exciting for the club and Eric. I can't wait to have him back."
Eagles too soon
Despite his progress and determination to play. It does look as though the Eagles clash will come a week too soon for Hipwood. Even if a replacement for the injured Joe Daniher is needed.
"He feels like he's ready to go," Neale added. "I don't think he'll play this week, but you never know."
