NICK Riewoldt is expected to be fit to play against Melbourne in round 17, but will first have to pass a fitness test on Thursday.

St Kilda’s skipper was visibly hampered late in Sunday’s 16-point loss

to Richmond, not due to any soft tissue calf complaint but rather a cut to his leg that occurred earlier in the game.

“Nick obviously got through the game ok after going in with a bit of a calf strain,” Head Physiotherapist Andrew Wallis told SAINTS.com.au.

“Just prior to half-time he copped an accidental studding to the leg on that same calf from an opponent. He’s pulled up really well and we will do what we did last week and test him.”

“If he gets through training on Thursday then he will be available for selection."

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In further injury news, Jack Billings will begin running early next week as he continues to recover from a shin injury, while Tom Curren is still at least two months away from a return to football after fracturing his fibula.

Daniel McKenzie did not play either VFL or AFL on the weekend but is expected to be available for selection ahead of round 17.

“Dan got a virus late last week and he’s certainly up and about now,” Wallis said.

“He should be available for selection this week.” 

UPDATED: Injury list