Brett Deledio's lengthy wait to play an AFL game for Greater Western Sydney could be over next week.
Recurring calf issues prevented the 30-year-old former Richmond star from playing a game this season until last week when he tallied 17 touches in a half for the Giants reserves.
Head coach Leon Cameron said the Tigers' two-time best and fairest winner would get around 75 per cent of NEAFL game time against Gold Coast on Saturday.
"He'll play a little bit more right around the action, mid and most likely half-back as well," Cameron said on Friday.
"If he gets through those four quarters tomorrow up at the Gold Coast, then there's every chance that we'll heavily consider him the week after against Melbourne.
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"He's got to get through though in the manner that we want him to get through.
"It's really pleasing, because it's obviously been a frustrating time for him and there's no doubt there would have been a fair bit of doubt of whether he's going to be back and playing some footy this year.
"But he's worked extremely hard and we're confident that he's going to be putting his hand up for the week after."
Giants' vice-captain Stephen Coniglio, who played alongside Deledio last week, said his teammate looked amazing.
"I think the best bit about him is his versatility," said Coniglio who is back in the senior side for Saturday's home game against Fremantle after overcoming a second ankle injury this season.
"Whether he plays down back or forward or midfield for us or wing, or wherever, he's going to add something that we probably haven't had in the past."
Coniglio said even before playing a senior game Deledio had set a great example for his new clubmates.
"I know those times in rehab when it's a Tuesday or Wednesday morning and you're battling at 7am and you're looking across at 'Lids' and he's working so hard and setting an example that is unbelievable for the rest of the group," Coniglio said.
"His work ethic and in particular his eagerness to get better and want to play and want to add to this group has been the one thing for me thats shone more than anything."
