Hawthorn star Will Day could make his much-anticipated AFL return as early as next week.
But that will hinge on his comeback this Friday night in the VFL with Box Hill.
A dislocated shoulder in the pre-season has sidelined Day since, and he only managed six AFL games last year because of a footy injury.
"It's pretty exciting for Will, for all of us. He'll be carefully managed, of course," coach Sam Mitchell said of Day's return.
"But he certainly won't be ready for AFL footy at this stage.
"When he gets back, stay back - that's the aim. So it could be as early as next week or a bit longer than that."
Given Day's latest injury was a shoulder, Mitchell said the star utility had been able to build a strong fitness base during his latest spell on the sidelines.
