Hannebery In Race Against Time

Sydney superstar Dan Hannebery is in a race against time to be fit for the Swans’ season opener against West Coast at Optus Stadium on March 25.

The premiership midfielder is battling a calf complaint which means he is far from a certainty to feature in the Perth venue’s historic first match for premiership points.

“He will be touch and go for the start of the season,” Sydney coach John Longmire said to Wednesday.

“It is about making sure he is right for the majority of the season rather than Round 1 at this stage.”

Hannebery was once again one of Sydney’s best players last year as he ranked second for tackles, fourth for disposals, fourth for clearances, fourth for contested possessions and fifth for inside 50s at the club.

The 27-year-old is due to become the 30th player in South Melbourne/Sydney history to play 200 games this season. He is currently on 193 career games.