The GIANTS could be bolstered by the return of Jacob Hopper this weekend after the midfield bull returned to full training following back-to-back knee injuries.

The star midfielder will put his hand up for selection for the first time since round two when the GIANTS welcome the Hawks to GIANTS Stadium on Sunday.  

“The body’s feeling good, it’s been a while but that’s just footy sometimes unfortunately,” Hopper said.

“I’m feeling ready, and hopefully I’ll get to have a run around soon and get my hands back on the footy again which will be nice."

Rucks Matt Flynn and Braydon Preuss are also tests to take on the Hawks in round 16.

Flynn has recovered earlier than anticipated from a quad injury he sustained at training, while Preuss is coming off a one-week suspension and an ankle injury sustained in round 14 against the Bulldogs.

Young forward James Peatling is also nearing a return after suffering a low-grade hamstring strain. He’s expected to be available for selection next week when the team heads to Adelaide to take on the Power.    

Injury Update – June 29