Stephen Hill has commenced his rehab program on his injured hamstring and is working towards a return to football in three to four weeks.

Hill sustained his hamstring injury in the last quarter of Freo’s win against North Melbourne last Saturday night at Domain Stadium but high performance manager Jason Weber is positive about his return to football.

“Stephen had a hamstring injury, we think he will be out for three or four weeks, but he pulled up pretty well this week and he is already into his rehab program,” Weber said.

“We are positive and we will be pushing him as hard as we can to get him back as soon as we can.”

Harley Balic was ruled out of Saturday’s game with a hip injury but Weber said the emerging midfielder would be available for selection for the Carlton Draught Derby.

“Harley had a minor hip injury, he trained really well through last week and had a great session over the weekend,” Weber said.

“We tested him this morning before training so we anticipate him to be available for selection on Thursday."

Michael Apeness joined the main group at training on Tuesday morning, a sign that Weber said was really positive for the forward.

“Michael has been out for a number of weeks with a knee injury but he’s got up and going really well,” Weber.

“He trained with the team this morning and had no problems, we anticipate after another couple of weeks in full training he will be available for selection.”

Peel Thunder had a bye over the weekend and will face West Perth this Saturday at Rushton Park.

“Those boys trained last weekend as a group,” Weber said.

“They trained really hard and did the best they could with small numbers and with the absence of a game.

“They are all in good condition and ready for this week.”