Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge acknowledges the cautious approach taken with star player Tom Liberatore as he nears his return to AFL action following his recent concussion ordeal. Liberatore’s absence from the game was prompted by two separate incidents this season, the most recent being a blow to the head from Conor Nash during a match against Hawthorn, which led to his indefinite withdrawal from AFL participation.
Liberatore’s aggressive style of play, coupled with concerns over his well-being and long-term prospects in the sport, has prompted discussions within the club regarding potential adjustments to his approach on the field. While the Bulldogs have progressively increased Liberatore’s training workload, his inclusion in the upcoming game against the Brisbane Lions hinges on successfully completing this week’s sessions without any setbacks.
Beveridge emphasizes the need for Liberatore to approach contests differently to mitigate the risk of further head injuries, recognizing the challenges in altering ingrained instincts during gameplay. The club’s cautious stance, described as “ultra-conservative” by Beveridge, reflects their commitment to ensuring Liberatore’s health and safety remain paramount.
Despite Liberatore’s expected return, teammate Ed Richards will undergo further assessment and sit out for at least another week due to lingering concerns following his own concussion. The Bulldogs face challenges with several key players sidelined, including Sam Darcy, Aaron Naughton, and Cody Weightman, necessitating potential adjustments to their forward line against the Lions.
