Dustin Fletcher could return to training next week, raising hope the Bomber veteran will don the sash again.

The 400 game player has been sidelined with an abdominal problem since the Dreamtime at the G’ match against Richmond in May.

“Fletch actually has improved and is very keen to get out and play if he can,” Club Doctor Bruce Reid said.

“We expect him to be back in to training reasonably well next week, with a bit of luck.”

Fletcher would need to build up his conditioning before being considered for selection.

The defender has played seven games this season, his 23^rd year in the AFL.