Lavington says defender Brant Dickson could be rushed forward when he returns from a 12-week break against North Albury on Saturday.
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However, the Hoppers believe there’s a number of other options, given Adam Prior’s three-match suspension.
“Probably Luke Garland or maybe Adam Butler could start there,” North co-coach Clinton Gilson said.
“I know Jono Spina’s an interleague defender, but maybe he could play there, he’s done that this year.”
But the Panthers say arguably their best player is the favourite.
“I’d say Dickson,” coach James Saker said when quizzed.
“He gives us experience and he’ll give us a target, a big body.
“We’re not going to expect miracles from him, but he’s had a good block of training.”
Dickson, who turned 30 on Thursday, injured his posterior cruciate ligament on May 6.
“It’s been feeling OK, but I just couldn’t get the fluid out of it,” he said.
