“The results of these showed two fractures to his ribs, and a small transverse process fracture.

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“At this stage, Steven will miss this week’s match against Port Adelaide. We will continue to monitor his pain and function following that, in the lead up to our round four game (against the Crows in Adelaide).”

Richardson said Lever had been cleared of major damage.

“He, instead, looks to have irritated a joint under his kneecap,” Richardson said.

“We will see how he responds this week at training, but we are optimistic he will be available for Saturday night’s game in Adelaide.”

Demon skipper Max Gawn was more candid on Triple M’s Marty Sheargold Show: “He’s fine [Lever]. I think it’s carry-on. I think he’s sooking.”

Lever’s availability is likely to mean Harrison Petty returns to the forward line after he helped cover the holes in the Demons’ defence on Saturday.

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