Carlton ruckman Matthew Kreuzer trained at full intensity Wednesday, as he nears his return to football. The big man has been absent since Round 1 after injuring his foot in the clash with Port Adelaide.

After surgery and months of rehabilitation, Kreuzer is a strong chance to play in the VFL this week as the Northern Blues come up against Port Melbourne.

Speaking with SEN on Tuesday night, General Manager of Football Operations Andrew McKay said that if Kreuzer can get through training he should return.

“Matthew’s progressing really well, if he can get through training tomorrow, then he will play for the Northern Blues on Saturday,” McKay said.

If he is able to get through a few reserves games unscathed, then there is even a possibility of him featuring in the senior side as the 2014 season winds down.

“If he goes well the next couple of games in the Northern Blues then he will be pushing for senior selection for the last game,” McKay said.

McKay said that while it has been a tough road for Kreuzer, he has been impressed by the 25-year-old’s resilience and resolute approach to his rehabilitation.

“The initial week or so after the last injury episode he probably asked himself the question a few times: Is it all worth it?

“But he is a very, very strong character, Matthew, and he’s determined to get back, and I don’t think we’ve seen the best of Matthew Kreuzer yet.”

As Kreuzer makes his bid to return, playmaker Chris Yarran remains a question mark for the weekend. Yarran trained lightly after injuring his calf against the Gold Coast. A decision on his availability will be made on Thursday.  

Meanwhile Chris Judd was energetic as ever on the track after making the decision to continue his famed career into 2015.

There was a cloud of uncertainty surrounding his future, but a combination of renewed health and improved performances from the team has reinvigorated the star midfielder.

“Certainly over the last four or five weeks we internally have noticed a bit of change in Chris and the team and certainly the feeling around the club,” McKay said.

“He’s noticed that too and it’s excited him. That’s what has really motivated him to keep going next year.”