Carlton forward Charlie Curnow is poised to play his first game in more than two years when he lines up for the Blues' VFL team this weekend.
The 24-year-old has had a number of knee problems since last playing at any level, which was a dramatic Carlton win against Fremantle in June 2019.
Barring any mishaps at training this week, Curnow will be eased back in Carlton's reserves match against Collingwood as they carefully manage his match time.
Blues coach David Teague estimated on Saturday that it would take at least two weeks before Curnow could be considered for an AFL recall.
"If his (Curnow) training form is any indication, I don't think form will hold him back," Teague told ABC Radio.
Curnow has kicked 77 goals in 58 games for Carlton since being drafted in 2015.
The Blues are enduring a difficult season, sitting 13th with a 6-10 record, but one of the shining lights has been the form of Harry McKay.
Favourite to take out the Coleman Medal, McKay has enjoyed a breakout season with 48 goals and recently signed a new contract to remain at Princes Park.
If Curnow can recapture his best form, the Blues would suddenly have two of the league's best and most dangerous goal-kickers in their forward line.
Curnow's second-last game in 2019 was a seven-goal haul against the Western Bulldogs where the Blues almost pinched an upset win.
