Osborne coach Joel Mackie planning to play against Jindera on Saturday

Mackie has been on the sidelines since early May nursing a torn tendon in his hamstring.

"The plan is to play against Jindera," Mackie said.

"It's been a long journey to get back but fingers crossed I can get two matches under my belt before finals and see how the body holds up."

Mackie conceded his return is a gamble.

"I've been out for three months so I don't know how the body will cope," he said.

"But I've had to be patient with my recovery and I knew I couldn't rush it."

Mackie said he wouldn't be naive in regards to his comeback.

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The dual Morris medalist didn't expect to be one of the most dominant midfielders in the competition like he was during his time in the O&M.

"I realise with my limited preparation that I will play a different role for the side and won't be able to have the impact in the midfield that I would like," he said.

"But I'll back myself to have an impact and do what is best for the side.

"I've just got to make sure my body will hold up and it's the best thing for the team.

"I'm very mindful that if I come back in that someone else misses out.

"That's what we have to weigh up, am I of more value on the ground playing or coaching from the sidelines?

"My focus is just on the next two weeks then we get a the first week of the finals of to re-evaluate."

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