Update on Key Defender’s Recovery and Carlton’s Opening Round Preparations
Jacob Weitering has verified his intention to make a comeback during Rounds 3-4 of the 2024 home-and-away season.
In January, the primary defender sustained a significant calf strain, prompting the Blues to adopt a cautious approach to the recovery of their esteemed John Nicholls Medallist.
With just 25 days until the Opening Round at the Gabba, followed by hosting Richmond in Round 1 upon football’s return to Melbourne, the Blues’ preparations are in full swing.
Aaron Hamill gives the rundown of our defender development this summer 📝 pic.twitter.com/n7E4Jlx1SG
— Carlton FC (@CarltonFC) February 8, 2024
In a conversation with 7 News Melbourne, the co-vice captain revealed that the expected timeline for his return has become clearer, with the club planning to reassess his progress during the Round 2 bye.
“I’ll slowly transition in the next couple of weeks to some more on-ground stuff. The timeline is 6-8 weeks, and hopefully we can nail that.”
Weitering is actively engaging in his rehabilitation, supporting Aaron Hamill in mentoring the team’s defensive line. He expressed his desire to continue contributing positively to the team despite being sidelined.
“I wanted to stay as present as possible, and some coaching opportunities were available. Defence is a big part of what I do, and I wanted to help out as much as I can.
Looking ahead to Carlton’s upcoming clash, Weitering emphasized that the team’s focus is solely on the task at hand, dismissing any lingering thoughts from last year’s preliminary final defeat against their upcoming opponents.
“It’s a prelim, and it’s a loss, and it does hurt a little bit. But it’s a new season, we start on zero points and the boys will be pretty motivated to go and get a job done.”
