“It’s been a bit of a journey for Jason this year with his calf injury so it‘s a pleasure we pleased to be able to put Jason back in the side this week,” he said.
Knights also revealed that while McVeigh and Hocking should return this week, injury has hit the club hard.
“We have 24 players available for selection this week which is just the way it is,” Knights said.
“Hille is having an operation on his hand, Fletcher won’t play because of his groin and Dempsey will miss six to eight weeks.
“Laycock has had some floating bone in his ankle for a little while now and it has got to the stage where he won’t be available either.
“So yeah, we’ve got a few issues with injuries but they are the cards you’re dealt and the 22 that run out have to represent the club well on Friday night. It’s on a big stage, playing a good club so we have to wind them up to play good footy.
To watch the Knights media conference click here
Knights said that with Hille and Laycock out, second gamer Tom Bellchambers will have a big two weeks ahead of him.
“Tom is the third ruckman on our list so he is going to come into the team and play this week. He is quite solidly built but he is a development player who is 18 years old, from Tasmania,” Knight said.
“He’s going to get a chance to ruck against a really good ruckman in Hudson and Minson does a little bit so it’s a great opportunity and he is going to have come ready to play.”
Knights also revealed that Lucas hasn’t improved much and remains in doubt for the season.
