INJURED Western Bulldogs midfielder Lin Jong has been named in Footscray's team for Sunday's VFL Grand Final after making a remarkable recovery from a cracked collarbone suffered a fortnight ago.
It was feared the 23-year-old's season was over after he sustained the injury in the elimination final win over West Coast two weeks ago but following surgery the day after the injury he is available.
If the Bulldogs defeat Greater Western Sydney in the preliminary final Jong would be in contention for a spot in the AFL Grand Final.
The Bulldogs made one change to their senior side with defender Fletcher Roberts replacing Matt Suckling who is struggling with Achilles soreness.
Jong's serious injury against the Eagles
Coach Luke Beveridge was pleasantly surprised by Jong's rapid recovery.
"Surprisingly enough Lin Jong came up really healthy after his collarbone incident, so he'll train today," Beveridge said on Thursday.
"If he gets through (training) and there are no problems with him, then we'll consider him.
"It will be up to him in the end, but if comes through (the fitness test) and says ‘I'm right to go’ he'll definitely picked at one level, we've just got to decide (whether it's senior and VFL level).
"We won't take any risks with him."
But if Jong doesn't prove his fitness, the Dogs are likely to take an unchanged line-up for one of the few times this season.
Forward Toby McLean came into the side to replace Jong for the semi-final win over Hawthorn, and performed well by kicking a goal and having a hand in a few others.
Midfielder Lukas Webb, running defender Roarke Smith and ruckman Tom Campbell were all emergencies for the semi-final and played well for Footscray last weekend.
