BEN CUNNINGTON has dodged a second bullet in the lead-up to Sunday's clash against Carlton, with the North Melbourne midfielder passed fit to take on the Blues just a day after escaping suspension for a controversial stomach punch.
Cunnington was injured during North's win over Melbourne last Sunday, when his right knee got caught underneath him in a Jack Viney tackle midway through the first quarter.
The 2014 best and fairest winner came off the ground but returned early in the second term and, despite being restricted in his running, finished with 26 disposals, eight clearances and one goal to be the Roos' most influential onballer.
North announced on Tuesday scans had cleared Cunnington of any injury to his knee.
"We sent Ben for scans on Monday as a precaution to ensure there was no damage to the knee and there was certainly nothing to cause any concern," North doctor Peter Baquie told NMFC.com.au.
"He'll be available to train this week and we expect him to play on Sunday."
Cunnington's injury reprieve comes less than a day after he dodged a MRP ban for punching Melbourne's Bernie Vince in the stomach last Sunday.
Cunnington accepted a $1000 fine for the punch, which the MRP assessed as low impact despite Vince being forced from the ground and dry-retching soon after.
Meanwhile, midfielder Jed Anderson is also expected to be available for selection against Carlton after overcoming a foot injury suffered when he was accidently stomped on at training last week.
"Jed's tracking very well and assuming he gets through training this week, we're hopeful he will be in line for a return this week," Baquie said.
But second-year key forward Ben McKay has suffered a setback in his recovery from hip and groin issues.
McKay has not played since Werribee's VFL season opener on April 16 but had been expected to return this weekend.
He is now not expected back for another three or four weeks.
"Unfortunately Ben had a bit of a setback in his recovery and will need some more time," Baquie said.
"It's disappointing for Ben, but we're confident he'll be able to have a strong second half of the season."
