A pair of injured Cats are closing in on their football returns as Geelong’s injury list continues to shorten and the business end of the season nears.

Ruck recruit Jonathon Ceglar and midfield wrecking ball Brandan Parfitt are both ramping up their training efforts as comebacks get closer for both players.

“Jonathon is building his conditioning program and integration into football specific drills,” Head of Medical and Conditioning Harry Taylor.

“Brandan is progressing through a specific program, whilst his hand injury heals.”

“We expect to see both Jonathon and Brandan back playing in the not-too-distant future.”

The club is still working through plans for Patrick Dangerfield’s return after his comeback was delayed last week.

 “The decision was made last week for Patrick to continue an additional period of training as the last signs of tightness clear,” Taylor says.

"He has put in some big sessions with the group and the medical and conditioning team will continue to work through the best plan for Patrick this week."

Veteran Cat Shaun Higgins made a successful return via the VFL against Richmond on Sunday.

 Speed machine Gary Rohan will reintegrate with the main group with the hopes of getting the green light after a late scratching last week.

“Gary was a late withdrawal from the game against Richmond due to sickness pregame,” Taylor says.

“Gary has recovered well and will resume training with the main group, with the hope of being available for selection this week.”

 Sam Simpson continues to make positive progress on the training track.

"Sam has been training well over the past fortnight and has shown great persistence and resilience, as he works through post-concussion program,” Taylor says.

“We hope to see Sam return to playing in the medium term.”

First-year trio Cooper Whyte (groin), Flynn Kroeger (wrist) and James Willis (knee) all remain sidelined.