GEELONG ruckman Rhys Stanley has been ruled out of Friday night's elimination final against Melbourne after failing to train on Wednesday.

Mature-age ruckman Ryan Abbott will hold his spot for his finals debut after playing the last two matches of the home and away season.

Speaking to 3AW on Wednesday evening, coach Chris Scott confirmed Stanley wouldn't be risked for the critical battle with Melbourne giant Max Gawn.

But he is expected to be available next weekend if the Cats overcome the Demons and stay alive in September.

Stanley was the notable absentee for the first 25 minutes of the Cats' main session available to the media ahead of the do-or-die clash with the Demons at the MCG.

Looking to overcome a calf problem he re-injured in round 21 against Hawthorn, Stanley was nowhere to be seen as his teammates completed light match simulation.

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On Monday, coach Chris Scott conceded the risk associated with two calf injuries in the past six weeks would be factored into the decision-making on Stanley's selection.

Abbott trained alongside fellow big man Zac Smith during the session.

Speaking to the media before training, forward Tom Hawkins said he was hopeful Stanley would do enough to be picked.

"I'm not exactly sure where it's at," Hawkins said.

"I trained with Rhys on Monday and he looked like he was moving really well.

"Selection, I'm not 100 per cent sure but it'd be great for Rhys. He's had a really solid year for us, so I'd love him to be out there. I'm not sure how that's going to pan out."

Gary Ablett was on light duties on Wednesday away from the main group but is not expected to miss his first final since 2010.