Shaun Higgins is pushing to return before the finals. The star forward hasn’t played since Round 7 after damaging the meniscus in his knee, but says he is progressing well in his recover from surgery.

"The knee is feeling really good and everything is on track," Higgins told The Age.

"I'll progress into running over the next two weeks; I'll start on the Alter-G (anti-gravity treadmill) then progress to outside running.”

But the 28-year-old won’t be taking any risks.

"The important part is I get ready for that stage, there's no point rushing into it."

His forecasted return is currently Round 20 or 21, meaning North could receive a huge boost heading into September.

"We mapped out from the start a plan to make sure I get myself every opportunity to come back but internally no one's importance is overrated,” Higgins said.

"We are one team that relies on everyone to play their role."

For more NMFC injury news and the full injury list, visit the Anytime Fitness Health Hub