Mattaes Phillipou is poised for a potential return to the field as St Kilda prepares to face the Collingwood Magpies at Marvel Stadium this week. The emerging star, who hails from South Australia, was sidelined last week following an early exit from a previous game due to a ruptured plantaris tendon. Fortunately, the injury was minor, but Phillipou must still pass a fitness test during Thursday’s main training session to be considered for selection.
Meanwhile, St Kilda’s key forward, Max King, is seeking further medical advice after experiencing knee discomfort during a training session late last week. This development adds another layer of complexity to the team’s injury management strategy.
Medical Updates and Team Strategy
David Misson, St Kilda’s Executive General Manager of Football, expressed the club’s cautious approach regarding King’s recovery. “It’s a very frustrating situation for Max, who has done everything possible to put his body in the best position to play this year,” Misson stated. “Our priority is Max’s long-term health and setting him up for a successful career here at the Saints, not rushing him back before he’s ready.”
“Max and our medical team are currently obtaining additional expert opinions, which will help us make the most informed decisions heading into the back half of the season. Once we consolidate this information, we’ll be best placed to make a decision on what the next couple of months look like for Max.”
Paddy Dow’s Remarkable Recovery
Paddy Dow is on the brink of making his first appearance in the 2025 season after a remarkable recovery from a serious knee infection that required multiple surgeries over the Christmas break. Like Phillipou, Dow will need to pass a fitness test to be available for selection this week. Misson praised Dow’s resilience, stating, “What Paddy has managed to overcome over the past six months is a testament to him and the dedication of our medical and high-performance staff who have assisted in his recovery.”
“We can’t wait to see him get back to what he does best.”
Injury List and Future Outlook
St Kilda’s injury list remains a significant concern as the team navigates the season. Key defenders Dougal Howard and Zaine Cordy are progressing well in their post-surgery rehabilitation programs, with returns expected in the coming weeks. This gradual recovery process highlights the club’s commitment to player health and long-term performance.
- Dow | Knee | Test
- Phillipou | Plantaris (Calf) | Test
- Howard | Hamstring | 1-2 Weeks
- Cordy | Pectoral | 3 weeks
- King | Knee | TBC
Implications for St Kilda’s Season
The series of injuries and recoveries at St Kilda underscore the challenges faced by the club as it aims to maintain competitiveness in the league. The potential return of Phillipou and Dow could provide a much-needed boost to the squad, offering fresh energy and talent. However, the uncertainty surrounding King’s condition remains a critical factor in the team’s strategic planning.
As St Kilda continues to manage its roster amid these injuries, the focus remains on ensuring the long-term health and performance of its players. The club’s cautious approach reflects a broader trend in sports management, where athlete welfare increasingly takes precedence over short-term gains.
Looking ahead, St Kilda fans and stakeholders will be keenly watching the outcomes of the upcoming fitness tests and medical evaluations. The decisions made in the coming weeks could significantly influence the team’s trajectory as it progresses through the season.
