Adelaide will be cautious with the pre-season programs of several players.

David Mackay (groin), Richard Tambling (groin/knee) and Will Young (shoulder) are not expected to join full training until after Christmas and instead will spend the first block of training in rehabilitation.

Mackay kept on top of a groin injury throughout the latter part of the season, but after rest did not allow the injury to heal enough club doctors opted for surgery on Monday.

Will Young had surgery on his shoulder at the end of the season and Tambling had groin release surgery and operations on both of his hips which ended his 2010 season.

“We want to manage these injuries after the surgery so they will stay out of the main group until after Christmas,” Crows physical performance manager Stephen Schwerdt said. “They will still do a fair bit of work inside but none of the football sessions at this stage.”

Bernie Vince, who had ankle surgery near the end of the season, Kurt Tippett (knee), Scott Thompson (knee), Brodie Martin (hip) and Ivan Maric (hip) will have a modified start to their program but will continue to join the main group for various sessions.

Brad Moran is back running with the main group and is on track for a full pre-season after an injury wrecked 2010 with knee and hamstring problems.

Andy Otten has hit the 11 month mark of his rehabilitation and has begun the pre-season in good shape.

Rookie Chris Schmidt continues his rehabilitation from minor knee surgery but will be involved in some of the football sessions.