CARLTON midfielder Dale Thomas is unlikely to play against Port Adelaide on Friday night.

The former Magpie has had a light week on the training track after he sprained his right ankle and sustained bone bruising to his knee during last Friday night's loss to Geelong.

Thomas will be put through a fitness test on Thursday before a decision on selection is made, but he was not seen at Melbourne airport on Thursday morning as the team flew out to Adelaide. 

"I will have a test on my foot today, so that will decide whether or not I play this weekend," Thomas told Nova 100 radio.

"It's feeling pretty good. I haven't done a great deal on it this week cause it's a bit sore. Hopefully if I can get through today I'll be a chance and if not I'll get a run for next weekend."

Small forward, Troy Menzel, who injured his shoulder in the same game, will also need to pass a fitness test on Thursday in Adelaide, but boarded the plane with the rest of the team.

On Wednesday, coach Mick Malthouse confirmed Jeff Garlett was in the mix to return for the clash against the Power.

But the club has now ruled out the small forward after he was charged with affray on Wednesday night by police for his involvement in an incident in the early hours of Sunday August 3. 

Garlett has been bailed and will appear in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on November 3.

Ruckman Cameron Wood said Garlett had lost the trust of the playing group, but was working hard to regain their respect.

"It's disappointing as a club," Wood said.

"In terms of Carlton standards, he obviously wasn't living up to those.

"Ever since the incident occurred he's tried to put every step in the right direction [to earn back the trust]. He's remorseful so we're behind him."