HAWTHORN has received some positive injury news ahead of its blockbuster clash against Geelong, with defenders Matt Suckling and Matt Spangher likely to be available.

 

Suckling was substituted out of the Hawks' loss to Fremantle on Sunday with an ankle issue but the Hawks are hopeful the important defender will be fit to face the Cats.

 

"He was a little bit sore when it first happened. He limped off," Hawks general manager of football operations Chris Fagan told the club's website.

“Early signs he’ll be fine, he’ll need to do a test on Thursday. I’m pretty certain he’ll be available.”

 

Spangher trained with the Hawks' main group on Tuesday after he was withdrawn late ahead of the Dockers' game with calf tightness.

 

The key defender will have a fitness test on Thursday and should be available.

 

Forward Jack Gunston pulled up well after his earlier-than-expected return from a medial ligament issue.

 

Meanwhile, the Hawks have confirmed Cyril Rioli is unlikely to be available until at least the second week of finals.

 

Rioli's recovery from a hamstring tendon injury has "just slowed a bit", Fagan said.