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AFL grand final: Charlie Spargo expected to be passed fit despite training no-show following ankle jar

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Craig O'DonoghueThe West Australian
VideoFooty fans will be treated to a glorious sunny day for the AFL Grand Final in Perth with a forecast top of 25C

Melbourne are adamant small forward Charlie Spargo will play in Saturday’s grand final despite an ankle injury suffered during training at the weekend preventing him from joining today’s session.

Spargo twisted awkwardly during a tackling drill and needed medical assistance for his left ankle. He kicked two goals in the first half of the preliminary final, but watched his teammates training this morning in a nervous start to grand final week.

But key forward Tom McDonald said everyone expected him to be fit by the weekend.

“He’s going to be fine. Guys who have a normal rolled ankle, they’d never run on a Monday, probably not a Tuesday, and you’d try to get them to train for a Wednesday,” McDonald said.

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“There would be absolutely no way he’d miss it. He didn’t need a scan, they tape it up pretty tight, and worst-case scenario you’d have some painkillers for the game. He’ll be absolutely fine for the game.

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“It’s not going to be something that really nags him or affects him physically. He’ll be a little bit sore after the game, but it’s not going to affect him during the week.

Charlie Spargo at training on Monday.
Camera IconCharlie Spargo at training on Monday. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

“He’s our best kick in the side. He’s our best kick inside 50. He’s a really important player. He’s pretty under rated around the competition.”

Spargo walking laps with Christian Salem.
Camera IconSpargo walking laps with Christian Salem. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

Christian Salem was also on light duties and McDonald said that continued an early-week trend the defender had followed since having groin problems midway through the season.

Backman Joel Smith has been cleared to re-join training from a hamstring injury, leaving selectors with the difficult task of finalising a team for Saturday.

“It’s horrible really that someone has to miss out somewhere,” McDonald said.

Max Gawn at training.
Camera IconMax Gawn at training. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

“There’s probably five or six guys who could lay claim to a spot in the side and you really feel for guys who will miss out.

“Joel came in at the right time of the year and was playing well but just had some bad luck. I have no idea what they’re going to do, but someone’s going to be pretty disappointed.”

Christian Petracca unleashes a flying disc.
Camera IconChristian Petracca unleashes a flying disc. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

“There’ll be a part of guys who have played throughout the year or played a role to get into this stage of the season that would feel they could really impact on grand final day, play and play well.

“But we’ve been really lucky. We’ve barely got any injures apart from a couple of long term knee recos. Essentially nearly everyone else is available. It’s an awesome spot to be in but it’s pretty tough. for some guys.”

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