BRETT Deledio's absence won't help Greater Western Sydney's chances of beating Port Adelaide on Saturday night, but coach Leon Cameron is confident a week off will make the veteran a key figure for the rest of the season.
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Deledio was left out of the Giants' team that left for Adelaide on Friday, with the club able to manage the 32-year-old for the first time since he arrived in Sydney at the end of the 2016 season.
The dual All Australian has been plagued by calf and Achilles issues in his three seasons at GWS, and while he suffered another setback early this year, he's played the past nine games in succession.
Brett Deledio's run of nine straight games is his most since 2016. Picture: AFL Photos
Deledio has played some important roles across half forward and on the wing this year, averaging 18.4 disposals per game.
The current string of senior appearances is Deledio's best result since he managed 11 straight games in his final year at Richmond.
The Giants have longed to give Deledio some time off at some stage during his three seasons, but have never had an opportunity because of his horrible luck.
If it helps Brett play some really good footy ... because his body gets to rest up, that can only be a good thing - Leon Cameron
Cameron said the two-time Tigers club champion pulled up sore after last week's win over Collingwood, so they took the chance to leave him at home for the Port clash.
"If it helps Brett play some really good footy over the next month or two because his body gets to rest up this weekend, then that can only be a good thing," he said.
"When he's in full flight, we understand the quality of player that he is.
"You want your best players out there every week and Brett has had a very good seven or eight weeks, but we want him (fit) for the remainder of the season.
"He was sore after last week, not just in the calves, but everywhere.
"I think you see it across the competition, clubs resting their older players, especially towards the back end of the year, but we haven't had that luxury with him."
Deledio's foot skills forward of centre will be missed against the Power in what looms as a crucial clash between two sides fighting hard to secure their position in the top eight.
Cameron said he's confident the experienced Giant will respond well to a light week on the track and be primed to take on the Swans in next week's Sydney derby at Giants Stadium.
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