Hawks’ forward needs to pass a fitness test before tackling the Power.
Hawthorn offcials said they would give Lance Franklin every chance to prove his fitness ahead of their important clash against Port Adelaide in round 16 of the AFL.
Franklin was named to take his customary place at centre half-forward for the game at AAMI Stadium, but was a noticeable absentee for the flight to Adelaide.
While the injury is not considered serious, Hawks offcials said they were confident that within 24 hours he will be right to play.
If ‘Buddy’ cannot take his place in the side it would be a big blow for Alistair Clarkson and his side who are desperate to rebound from their 10-point loss to the bogey side Geelong.
If Hawthorn is to maintain their place at the top of the ladder they will need Franklin in the side, despite the goal-scoring ace having mixed form this season.
Franklin will be looking to inspire his side against the Power who have recorded impressive wins of late after they defeated the Sydney Swans by 18 and Collingwood by 35 a fortnight ago.
However, they too will be looking to bounce back to form after they were outplayed by a slick Essendon side last weekend.
With wet weather expected for the Saturday night game, Power assistant coach Matthew Nicks said if the forecast came true it would suit his side down to the ground.
“Against a side like Hawthorn, every side would like it to bucket down and be under water because they are such a skilful side,” Nicks said.
“We would love it to be wet.
“We know it’s going to be a tough one for us. But if we had the choice between super dry and wet, well, no doubt we would love to play them in the bog.”
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