INFLUENTIAL Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer will overcome his ankle injury to line up in the season opener against Richmond on Thursday night at the MCG.
Kreuzer, 28, suffered a rolled left ankle in the first quarter of the Blues' final JLT Community Series clash against Hawthorn on Saturday, March 10.
Blues midfielder Ed Curnow told reporters at Ikon Park on Monday Kreuzer would be fit, given the 12-day break between games.
"Kreuz will play," Curnow said.
"He's incredibly brave. He's played with a lot of injuries in the past. He'll be fine and fresh and ready to go.
"It was a tough ankle roll and he's recovered well. He's already running around. He's a seasoned veteran and a true professional.
"He's also a bit of a beast and he loves playing his mate (Richmond captain Trent) Cotchin, so he'll be out there throwing his body around, no doubt."
Kreuzer and Cotchin played together at the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup and were drafted at No.1 and 2 respectively in 2007.
Northern Knights teammates Matthew Kreuzer and Trent Cotchin in 2007. Picture: AFL Photos
The Blues big man finished third in the best and fairest last year behind Marc Murphy and was nominated in the Virgin Australia All Australian squad of 40.
Curnow tipped a couple of possible Carlton debutants to face the Tigers.
"I think Paddy (Dow) is definitely a really good chance. It's obviously up to the coaches," Curnow said.
"Matt Kennedy has come across from GWS and has had a great pre-season, so he's probably another."
Dow was drafted with the third selection last year and has impressed as a classy onballer who can burst away from the contest and kick goals.
Kennedy was traded at the end of 2017 for No.28 in the NAB AFL Draft, which the Giants used on key defender Sam Taylor. At 188cm, Kennedy offers a big body to win contested football and help the likes of Patrick Cripps and Marc Murphy.
He managed 16 games last season before being dropped after round 21 on the eve of the Giants' finals campaign.
Former Cat Darcy Lang is dealing with an ankle injury.
"I think he's still got to prove his fitness. Darce is training well, he looks super fit," Curnow said.
