Veteran AFL journalist Caroline Wilson has provided an update on Richmond superstar Dustin Martin following his extended time away from the game due to personal reasons.
The three-time Norm Smith medallist appeared in Richmond’s opening round loss to Carlton before he was granted personal leave for what was thought to be only a short period away from the club.
Martin lost his father Shane in December and suffered a serious kidney injury in round 18 last year, which saw him miss the remainder of the season.
READ MORE: Tennis world divided by ‘crazy’ Wimbledon decision
READ MORE: Issac Hardman’s classy message to Michael Zerafa after stunning fight
READ MORE: Olympic gold medallist opposes transgender athletes competing
Despite previous reports suggesting Martin could be preparing to retire prematurely, Wilson was optimistic the 30-year-old would be back in a Tigers jumper shortly.
“Dustin Martin has been in Sydney for a little while, he’s now back in Melbourne and it’s as strong as I’ve heard that there’s a very good chance he’ll be back training over the next week,” she told Nine’s Footy Classified.
“I can’t confirm it but that’s what I believe is a strong chance.”
Footy Classified is now available as a podcast! Subscribe/follow via Apple, Spotify or Google Podcasts.
Tigers coach Damien Hardwick previously told the media there was no timetable on when Martin would return.
On Thursday he encouragingly said Martin appeared in a better headspace of late.
“We’re reluctant to provide a running commentary but what we do know is he’s in a better space,” he said.
“When we know more we certainly will give you guys more information but at this stage it’s the same as it has been.”
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!