After more than 18 months on the sidelines, Hawthorn ruckman Jonathon Ceglar is set to make his return to football via the VFL this weekend.

Ceglar ruptured his ACL in Round 22 2016 against the Eagles, a game that also saw ruck counterpart Nic Naitanui suffer the same injury.

After recovering from a knee reconstruction, the 27-year-old Hawk was nearing full fitness in the pre-season before a back strain further delayed his preparations.

According to Director of High Performance Andrew Russell, the 204cm ruckman has now proven his fitness and will take to the field this Saturday. 

“He’s looking great,” said Russell. 

“He’s excited, and we’ll see him out there this week playing for Box Hill.”

Vice Captain Liam Shiels could also make a return after progressing well from a back injury that kept him out of Hawthorn’s Round 6 win. 

“He trained today, and he trained really well. 

“There’s a really good chance that he’ll be available this week.”

Coaches' votes: Round 6