CARLTON'S first AFL injury update of 2022 is here, with updates on 10 Blues ahead of the season opener to comes in just under a month.

Four Blues have been ruled out for the Round 1 clash with Richmond, while as many others are tests to get a practice match under their belt against either St Kilda or Melbourne over the next fortnight. 

Here's where things stand. 

Sam Walsh (ankle)

Walsh completed surgery last week following an ankle syndesmosis injury. In a recovery phase, he is wearing a moon boot post-surgery and has been ruled out for at least the first month of the season: his availability to play will be assessed after that time.

Josh Honey (knee)

Honey underwent surgery last week on the illotibial band (ITB) around his knee. He is currently in a recovery phase ahead of integrating him into a running program: he is expected to be available to play after the first month of the season.

Jack Carroll (calf)

Carroll developed a tight calf towards the end of the intra club on Friday. He will be managed this week, but is expected to be available to play against Melbourne next Thursday.

Harry McKay (foot)

McKay has some joint soreness in his foot that is currently being managed. He won’t play against St Kilda this week, while he’s a chance to play against Melbourne next Thursday: however, the main focus is being ready for Round 1.

Tom De Koning (medical)

Several weeks ago, De Koning completed a minor procedure to remove a blood colt in his shoulder. Since then, he has been in good health, partaking in training across all of February minus contact. He will be a test to play against Melbourne after further assessment next week.

Sam Docherty (conditioning)

Docherty continues to build his training loads in the skills program. He is a chance to play against Melbourne next Thursday: however, the main focus is being ready for around the start of the season.

Dominic Akuei (groin)

Akuei experienced some groin soreness a few weeks ago: he is back in the skills program after being monitored closely. He is expected to be available for the start of the season.

Liam Stocker (ankle)

Stocker underwent surgery before Christmas following an ankle syndesmosis injury, which was a higher grade than that of teammate Walsh. He is currently in a strong running phase of his rehabilitation, which he is continuing to focus on. He won’t be available for the practice games, with his availability to play to be assessed again at the start of the season.

Caleb Marchbank (knee)

Marchbank has started integrating back into the skills program, with the aim to be available to play some level of football between Rounds 5-8 this season.

David Cuningham (knee)

Cuningham is currently in a running program, with the aim to be available to play in the second half of the season.