THE RETURN of St Kilda recruit Dean Kent to full training means the Saints have nearly a completely healthy squad early in the New Year.

Defender Logan Austin is nursing a groin issue while draftees Max King (right knee) and Jack Bytel (back) are being treated very conservatively.

FULL FIXTURE Every round, every game

Having had forward Paddy McCartin (left foot) and ruckman Billy Longer (left ankle) complete their rehab periods several weeks ago, the Saints' list is relatively fit.

King, coming off a knee reconstruction, doesn't expect to return until around mid-season, while St Kilda is playing it even safer with tough onballer Bytel, who suffered back stress fractures last year.

Kent was traded to Moorabbin while recovering from a right shoulder operation that ended his 2018 campaign with Melbourne.

While he was restricted to running laps on Wednesday at RSEA Park, the 24-year-old was with the main group on Monday and is set to train fully on Friday as well.

It was a lighter session for the players and several weren't on the field.

WHO MAKES FINALS? Do the 2019 Ladder Predictor

Among those confined to the gym were Jack Steven, David Armitage, Dan Hannebery and Jimmy Webster, as part of their managed programs.

Hunter Clark showcased his composure at training amid optimism he could play a full-time midfield role this season, having smashed his old personal best time in the 3km time trial last Saturday, which was won by Ed Phillips. 

Wingman Jack Newnes finished fourth in that race – just behind captain Jarryn Geary – and is tracking along better than 12 months ago when he was hampered after a knee operation.

Josh Battle continued training with the backline, where the Saints hope to take advantage of his aggression and impressive athletic profile.