Sydney Swans captain Callum Mills has put in a vigorous effort during training as he seeks to prove his fitness for the upcoming AFL grand final against the Brisbane Lions. After missing the preliminary final against Port Adelaide due to a hamstring injury, Mills was optimistic following a demanding session on the training field. He expressed his hopes to return to the lineup, stating, “I’m hoping that’s enough.”
Leaving the training session, Mills radiated confidence, and even coach John Longmire noted that the captain trained exceptionally hard, indicating his determination to overcome the injury that sidelined him earlier. While the final team will be confirmed on Thursday, Mills’ spirited performance during training was promising, as he emerged from the session in high spirits and ready to contribute.
Mills reflected on his training, emphasizing his focus on the team’s performance, stating, “I’ve just been worried about the team and making sure we’re in the best shape to play well in a granny.” Having sustained his injury during the qualifying final against GWS on September 6, the timing of his recovery aligns closely with typical recovery periods for hamstring strains.
Following Mills’ training, Longmire acknowledged his captain’s effort, noting that he pushed himself to “110 percent.” However, he refrained from confirming whether Mills would be included in the final lineup, indicating that they would assess his readiness further before making a decision. Longmire is also mindful of the need to consider the rest of the team as they prepare for the grand final showdown.
Meanwhile, spearhead Logan McDonald is expected to participate in the grand final despite a recent ankle roll during the preliminary final. The decision to reintegrate Mills into the team will be significant, as Longmire previously faced challenges with player returns after injuries. Ultimately, the focus remains on the upcoming match against Brisbane, with both Mills and the entire team eager to deliver a strong performance on the grand final stage.