West Adelaide captain Ryan Ferguson has been rated a 50-50 chance of playing in Sunday’s SANFL Preliminary Final against North Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
Ferguson, who suffered a severe case of concussion in the Qualifying Final, missed the Bloods’ loss to Norwood in the Second Semi-Final.
The former Melbourne backman has been listed at half-back in West’s 23-man squad but is no certainty of taking his place in the side.
“Tuesday night was a lighter night (of training),” West football manager Andrew Marks said.
“So there were only a few drills but he was certainly out there running around. I think we will get a better idea tonight and on Saturday morning.
“When you are dealing with a concussion the most important part is to make sure his head is OK after intense exercise. There has to be no sign of headache or dizziness.”
Along with Ferguson, midfielders Josh Schiller, Dean Poynton and Nick Homburg have been added to the squad while ruckman Peter Nelson has been listed on the extended interchange bench.
North Adelaide has named Crows-listed forward Lewis Johnston in its 23-man squad.
Johnston, who rolled his ankle in the Elimination Final, was a late withdrawal for the Roosters’ gutsy win against Woodville-West Torrens in the first semi-final.
After undergoing rehab with the Crows throughout the week, Johnston will be tested physically on Friday. If he passes the test, he will be released to attend North’s next training session.
Coach Josh Francou has also included spirited midfielder Ben Williams on his five-man extended interchange bench along with last week’s debutant Patrick Boles, who copped a heavy knock to his shoulder from Eagles ruckman Craig Parry.
“He can roll through the midfield and he can go forward,” Francou said of Williams.
“He reads the ball well and he can kick goals so he does make an impact in attack as well. He is a desperate player.”
Delisted Power forward Daniel Stewart has overcome the bout of flu which restricted him in North’s first semi-final win.
Francou said it was pleasing to have his side so settled at such a crucial stage in the season as West continues to battle injury and form issues.
