FREMANTLE forward Michael Walters is on track to make a surprise early return from a serious ankle injury. 

 

Walters dislocated a tendon in his ankle in round three against Hawthorn and there were fears that he may miss the rest of the season as a result.

 

But after successful surgery the 23-year-old, who kicked 46 goals last season, has moved ahead of schedule with his rehabilitation. 

Walters has started running and Lyon told 6PR on Monday night that he was looking forward to having his dangerous left-footer back before September.

 

"He is moving and he's super fit," Lyon said.

 

"He's in really good shape. He'll come to hand pretty quickly.

 

"I'm really excited that we're going to see him again this year."

 

However Lyon cautioned there was still some way to go before Walters returned but was optimistic about his progression.

 

The coach also revealed that key defender Luke McPharlin was close to a return after suffering a medial ligament strain in round 12 against Adelaide. 

Fellow defender Michael Johnson suffered the same injury in the same match, and both were expected to miss a minimum of three weeks.

 

"Luke's progressing really well," Lyon said.

 

"He's a bit of a chance I suppose. But we wouldn't take any risks with him. If he's right to play he'll play.

 

"McPharlin is probably ahead of Johnson, and Johnson is not too far behind him."

 

Lyon confirmed Matt de Boer is "probably available to play this week" after overcoming a medial ligament strain he suffered at training on May 28.