Almost fully fit Demons selection headache

Melbourne’s dream run with injuries is a good problem to have in the lead-up to Saturday’s grand final, but it’s still a problem.

The Demons headed to Optus Stadium on Wednesday for the club’s main training session with almost a full squad to choose from.

Jayden Hunt â€" who is returning from an ankle injury â€" is pushing for selection, while key defender Steven May has been training fully without strapping on his hamstring and is now certain to start, barring any late mishaps.

Apart from wingman turned defender Adam Tomlinson, who has returned to training from a season-ending knee injury, the Demons aren’t missing anyone from their best 23.

Adam Tomlinson is the only player in Melbourne’s best 23 who is unavailable for selection due to injury. Credit:Getty

Angus Brayshaw said while there was always an element of luck involved with a team’s injury profile, he referenced the work done by new physio Dan James, who was previously working at Carlton.

“He and I often joke, tongue in cheek, that he’s the sole reason for the injury record we’ve had this year. ‘DJ’ would appreciate this pump-up as well,” Brayshaw chuckled.

Angus Brayshaw Credit:Getty

“There is a lot of luck involved in it to a certain degree, but I also think we’ve got a very professional group.

“We’ve had years when it has not been then case, and we just get hit week after week by freak injuries. So we are pretty happy to be in this situation.”

The club said Spargo had only jarred his ankle, and he hasn’t required any more treatment.

“Outside of that we’ve got 40-odd blokes who are putting their hand up and yeah, there are going to be some stiff blokes to not be playing. Doesn’t mean they haven’t contributed in a really meaningful way,” Brayshaw said.

“I don’t know what the team is going to be, obviously, but I think the competition for spots has been really good for us.”

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Sam McClure is a sport reporter for The Age and winner of 'best news reporter' at the AFL Media Association awards.Connect via Twitter or email.

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