Carlton forward pushes for return, defender in doubt

Hayward (ankle) fell short of playing in last week's wildcard match but, unlike Haynes, trained in the portion of Wednesday's main session open to the media.

Coach Josh Fraser was coy on Hayward's availability for Friday's MCG blockbuster, noting he needed to get through training then be assessed on whether he was "fit to perform".

"But we're hopeful that he's in a better place this time around than what he was last week," he said.

"... He did a power of work to get himself to a point to be considered last week.

"Ultimately, we felt like he wasn't ready, so we're interested to see what version we get of him today. But I do know that he's left no stone unturned in trying to be ready to play."

Hayward kicked three goals when Carlton beat Geelong earlier in the year and adds a clear point of difference to the Blues' attack.

"The way Will plays the position we want him to play is what we will look at," Fraser said.

"And he's a quality player. He's added enormously to our playing group, both from what you see on field, but the character he is as well.

"So he's an important part of what we've done so far this year, and yeah, if he's fully fit, then he'll be a great addition for us."

Haynes received treatment on his ankle on several occasions in Friday's win over Melbourne but pushed through.

"It's fair to say he was a bit sore post-game, and he's probably slowly progressed quite well throughout the week, the early parts of the week," Fraser said.

"So he'll need to to train again today to prove his fitness, but we're hopeful on that one.

"What I do know is he's quite tough and resilient, so he'll give himself every chance."

Geelong are tossing up whether to rush back star midfielder Holmes, who hasn't played since fracturing an ankle and needing syndesmosis surgery in round 19.

"We have to be prepared for him to play and for him not to be available to play," Fraser said.

"He's a proven player who adds a lot to their side and, at this stage, I'm erring on the side of him being available.

"Significant when you pair him with Bailey Smith and their running capacity they bring and ball-winning ability.

"That poses some real challenge for us but what we've tried to do a fair bit is not tie ourselves in knots around the opposition and continue to focus on what we do well."