Harley Bennell likely to be available for Round 2

Prominent AFL player agent Colin Young has confirmed Melbourne recruit Harley Bennell will likely be available for selection in Round 2 – whenever that is.

The forward has dealt with ongoing calf issues that derailed his time at Fremantle and also led to early setbacks at the Demons.

However, the time off caused by the COVID-19 shutdown has allowed him to finally get his body right.

“I spoke to Harley last week and I’ll probably give him a call over the weekend, but the players that have had long-term injuries they’re the ones that are going to benefit,” Young said.

“I’ve got Nathan Wilson from Fremantle who will probably be ready for the next game and we’ve got Harley who we think will be ready for Round 2 which will be great for the Melbourne supporters and himself and the family.

“Quite a few other players that are coming back from injury. Zac Fisher went down Round 1 and he should be ready go so some players have benefited from this time away.”

Bennell last played in Round 23 of 2017, one of only two games he played for Fremantle.

His former teammate Wilson was dealing with a toe injury coming into the season, while Carlton’s Fisher sustained an ankle syndesmosis injury in Round 1.

The Blues believed he would need four weeks in a moonboot before he would resume running.

The AFL is expected to resume in mid-June or early July.