Carlton’s post-season medical room is significantly quieter than at this time last year – and the Blues are hoping it stays that way. 

More than 20 Carlton players had surgery ahead of season 2014. It restricted pre-season training loads and meant a number of players had a delayed start to the year. 

However this off season is looking much brighter at Visy Park. 

Just five players have undergone surgery and all are on the road to recovery. 

Sam Docherty had minor hip surgery, Andrew Walker a minor knee surgery and Tom Bell had surgery to remove the plate in his finger – all are expected to have full mobility when training recommences. 

David Ellard is also on the mend after spending several weeks on crutches following ankle surgery. 

The only player who remains a concern is 2013 draftee Cameron Giles, whose recovery is progressing slowly after surgery on his fractured foot. 

Carlton’s GM-Football Operations Andrew McKay says having the majority of the list fully fit will make a huge difference to the types of training the team can undertake. 

“It will certainly make a massive difference in the drills we are able to run in pre-season training,” McKay said. 

“The more numbers you have on the training track, the better the full ground drills work – particularly the game oriented ones. It will help us enormously ahead of next season." 

Meanwhile McKay says Matthew Kreuzer, who was restricted to just one game in 2014, is running well and "looking very fit”.

Carlton’s 1-4 year players return to training on November 5, while the full playing list will return by November 17.