Jack Buckley, Jesse Hogan and Lachie Whitfield will all face fitness tests later this week in order to prove their availability for Saturday’s blockbuster clash with the Cats at ENGIE Stadium. 

Buckley was subbed out of Friday night’s game at Optus Stadium after injuring his foot in a marking contest. 

The reliable defender underwent scans upon returning to Sydney over the weekend, which confirmed a mid foot medium-grade ligament sprain. 

Buckley will be given every opportunity to prove his fitness in order to face the Cats this weekend. 

After missing Friday’s 59-point win over the Eagles with foot soreness and illness, Hogan is also a chance to return this week, provided he proves his readiness in Thursday’s training session. 

Whitfield is on track to return this weekend and play his 250^th game after missing last week due to ongoing concussion symptoms. 

He successfully trained at the club on Friday and Tuesday and will need to complete Thursday’s session symptom-free to be cleared to play on Saturday. 

Sam Taylor and Nathan Wardius continue to make progress in their respective rehab plans, with the duo aiming to return in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, draftee Jack Ough will undergo a shoulder reconstruction later this week after dislocating his shoulder in the VFL on the weekend. 

The GIANTS will take on the Cats this Saturday at ENGIE Stadium. 

Injury List – July 8