Melbourne vice-captain Jack Viney is making an incredible late push to play in the Demons' run towards the finals.
Just a week after coach Steven King conceded he was close to ruling Viney out for the year, and a fortnight following the midfielder's own confession about his future, the premiership hero is back training at Casey Fields.
Viney has been dealing with Achilles and back issues and hasn't played since round 24 last year.
The 32-year-old earlier this month acknowledged the injuries were even hard to deal with than an ACL because the recovery wasn't linear.
But Viney was a popular addition to training on Wednesday as the Demons prepare for Friday night's MCG blockbuster against Geelong.
"He's had a couple of sessions and got to a point where he's recovered well," King told reporters on Wednesday.
"Sometimes when you increase load your body either shuts down or actually responds well.
"He's taken a couple of steps forward so maybe he might have just broken through that barrier where he can string a couple of sessions together.
"I think anything is a bonus for Jack."
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But King is hesitant to put a timeline on a return for Viney, although he isn't closing the door on a comeback this year.
Largely written off heading into the season, Melbourne (12-6) have emerged as a genuine premiership threat as they look almost certain to feature in the finals.
"It's a nice little treat when you get some depth back in your list," King said.
"We've had some players that have been out for a long time starting to return, and it actually it gives you a bit more depth, which is great for spots in the team."
Melbourne will be without Daniel Turner for up to four weeks after the defender suffered a cracked rib during the Demons' win over North Melbourne last Saturday.
But fellow defender Changkuoth Jiath's leg injury isn't as bad as first feared, cleared of any damage to his Achilles and calf.
