Lycett on track for early return

WEST Coast ruckman Scott Lycett is a chance to be fit for the start of the AFL season after making strong progress in his recovery from a knee operation.

He had surgery on his left knee in September after battling a PCL injury in the second half of the 2016 campaign.

Although he was initially set to return in time for Round 1, West Coast coach Adam Simpson feared the 24-yearold might not be ready until midway through the season after his initial recovery was slower than expected.

However, Lycett’s progress has ramped up significantly over the past two months, and he’s on track to play in the club’s final pre-season match on March 9 against Melbourne.

If he gets through that unscathed, he will be considered for the March 26 season opener against North Melbourne.

“He’s training fully now,” Simpson said.

“And now it’s about getting some games under his belt. That will start next week.

“He’ll be pretty close to playing Round 1 or 2.”