WESTERN Bulldogs star Liam Picken is in doubt for the club's JLT Community Series opener against Melbourne on Saturday after sustaining a facial injury at training last week.
The club expects the rugged 29-year-old to resume training this week following surgery to repair the damage.
Recast as an attacking midfielder by coach Luke Beveridge, the once dour defender has become a key cog in the premiers' midfield and was one of the Dogs' best on Grand Final day.
The Bulldogs appear to have had a smooth pre-season until the mishap, with key forward Tom Boyd recovering well from off-season shoulder and ankle surgeries, and midfielder Mitch Wallis progressing well in his return from a badly broken leg.
Skipper Robert Murphy has already signaled his intention to take part in the pre-season competition after recuperating from an ACL tear sustained in round three last year.
Saturday's pre-season hit-out against the Demons will be the Bulldogs' first competitive hit-out since their drought-breaking premiership win over the Swans.
The Whitten Oval fixture will start at 4.40pm and be followed by an AFLW clash between the two clubs at 7.35pm.
AFL and club access members will have free general admission entry to JLT Community Series matches in which their club is competing (subject to availability, upgrade fees may be applicable). Click here to learn more.
