Alex Johnson on the verge of NEAFL return

Sydney Swans premiership defender Alex Johnson, according to Peter Ryan of AFL.com.au, is on the verge of making his long-awaited comeback from five knee reconstructions.

While he hasn't played a game since 2014, AFL.com.au's Peter Ryan believes the Swans are considering selecting him ahead of their NEAFL clash against Canberra on Saturday.

While nothing is certain, the prospect of Alex returning to senior football, albeit through the NEAFL is not only tantalising, but mouth watering.

Due care has to be applied without any hesitation, and certainly expectations need to be curbed, with a heavy handed "no rush" approach applied.

But while the AFL.com.au believe that he's ready for selection, the Swans are undoubtedly cautious about playing him, and will need to ensure that he's not only fit enough, but strong enough to do it.

Given there's still Thursday and Friday training before the NEAFL game, any doubt and his return will be delayed, with his return more likely to happen against the Suns next week.

The defender has been remarkably resilient throughout his career, undergoing five reconstructions and 10 surgeries, yet persisted and kept returning through rehab and training despite the setbacks.

It's a testament to the young mans desire to succeed and take everything that's been thrown his way in his stride.

While Daniel Menzel returned after four reconstructions, Alex Johnson will be the first player to return after five.

Given how important Menzel is in Geelong's team, and how well he's played since the start of last season, there's always the possibility that Johnson could return to his former level, just like Malceski did after his knee operations.

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Justin Mitchell

Justin is a passionate AFL and Sydney Swans supporter, and football blogger since 2016. All articles are of his own opinion. You can reach him by twitter and Facebook at @theswansblog

Melbourne, Australia https://theswansblog.com

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