Sydney hope for boost Lions may face returning Swans veteran McVeigh

missed all of their pre-season games with a calf injury.

McVeigh 32, was poised to return for the Sydney derby in Round 5, but hamstring tightness delayed his much needed and anticipated return.

Provided he has no setbacks at training today and Friday, McVeigh will return against Brisbane in either the AFL or NEAFL at the SCG on Sunday.

“He’s had a significant block of training now, he’s been close for the past couple of weeks,” Swans head of football Tom Harley said.

“We’ve got the final training session on Friday and the game on Sunday, so there’s plenty of time for Macca to push his claims.

“Barring any setbacks he’ll play this week, he’s available.

“With regards to where he plays, that clearly has to be determined a bit later on in the week. But it will be great to have him back, he’s such an integral part of the team.”

Injury-prone utility Gary Rohan, who spent a night in hospital after a nasty collision with Carlton’s Sam Rowe last Saturday, is unlikely to play, despite scans clearing him of any structural damage.

“He suffered a concussion and some whiplash as well, so he’s quite sore,” Harley said. “He’ll go through he concussion protocols this week.

“It’s unlikely he’ll play, but he’s back at the club and in good spirits.”

Ruckman Kurt Tippett (hip flexor) and defender Harrison Marsh (hamstring), who both missed last week’s game, will be tested on Friday.

“Every chance both will be available,” Harley said.