Harry McKay clear to face Power as Blues sweat on stars

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Harry McKay clear to face Power as Blues sweat on stars

Carlton star Harry McKay is set to play in the high-stakes clash against Port Adelaide, with follow-up tests clearing the key forward of concussion after his head knock.

McKay took a hit to the face in a marking contest with North Melbourne player Eddie Ford on Sunday, which left the Blues’ goal-kicker groggy.

The 26-year-old was slow to get to his feet but continued playing, booting a goal before being called off the field for a head injury assessment.

He passed the test and returned to the action, adding a second goal late in the match to seal Carlton’s important 19-point victory.

Blues coach Michael Voss later defended the club’s handling of McKay, while the player himself told Fox Footy post-game he was “fine”, adding “I don’t think I’d kick a goal if I didn’t feel great.”

A Blues spokesperson on Monday confirmed McKay has since passed further tests and is set to back-up in the second-placed side’s meeting with Port Adelaide (seventh) at Marvel Stadium on Friday night.

But Carlton are still sweating on the fitness of No.1 ruckman Tom De Koning (foot), winger Blake Acres (foot), **** midfielder Sam Walsh (back) and key defender Sam Durdin (calf).

All were hurt during the bruising encounter with North Melbourne and must prove their fitness on a short five-day break leading into the Power clash.

There will be a spotlight on Walsh in the coming days, after he missed the start of the season with a recurrence of his previous back injury.

The 24-year-old was clearly nursing a sore back and required assessment after several big hits during the North Melbourne contest, but played out the match.

“Walshy got kneed in the back so we’ve got to see how that settles,” Voss said post-game.

“He’s had a direct knock there so as far as I’m aware that’s all it currently is.”

Carlton defenders Mitch McGovern (hip flexor) and Caleb Marchbank (illness) are expected to return against Port Adelaide.

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