Kennedy closes in on return

WEST Coast coach Adam Simpson will take a patient approach on Josh Kennedy as the star forward attempts to prove his fitness in time for the Eagles’ AFL clash with Gold Coast.

A longer than expected recovery from ankle surgery meant Kennedy was reduced to a frustrated spectator for the opening three rounds.

The two-time Coleman medallist also had a minor knee operation on the eve of the season.

West Coast has managed to snare two wins without Kennedy but Simpson would love to have his star spearhead back in the fold.

“He’s in the training phase now so we’ll see how fit we can get him to throw him in there,” Simpson said. “He’s pretty keen, though.”

Fellow spearhead Jack Darling has stood up admirably in the absence of Kennedy. Darling booted two final-quarter goals on Sunday as West Coast came from 15 points down to beat Geelong by 15.

“Jack’s been exceptional,” Simpson said.

Jake Waterman has filled the void left by Kennedy and the 19-yearold could be squeezed out when the 207-game veteran returns.

The Eagles hope the ankle injury suffered by goalsneak Liam Ryan isn’t serious. Ryan injured his right ankle while booting his third goal with a desperate lunge in the final quarter.

The 21-year-old has booted seven goals in three games, proving crucial to West Coast’s forward set-up.