Harley Bennell won’t be playing in the middle “at any level” in 2017, according to senior coach Ross Lyon, as the talented midfielder continues to make progress on his return from multiple calf injuries.

Bennell is coming off back-to-back WAFL games playing at deep forward where the 24-year-old picked up 12 disposals kicked a goal in Peel’s 28-point win over East Perth in round 17, and five disposals and three marks against Subiaco in round 18.

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s training session, which saw Bennell working with the main group, Lyon confirmed that Fremantle would continue to take their time with elevating the former no.2 draft pick to senior footy. 

“Harley will play at Peel, he’s progressing really well,” Lyon said.

“There’s a bit of anxiety around it as it’s been so long and the nature of the injury.

"He's really glowing … he feels good, but underneath that there's that risk profile.

“I wouldn’t have thought that there would be midfield work for Harley at any level this year, it’s just not feasible.”

Peel face Swan Districts on Saturday at Steel Blue Oval ahead of their round 20 bye.

The bye opens the door for Bennell to play his first game for Freo against his former side, Gold Coast, on Saturday, 5 August - although Lyon said he may need more time.

"He'll continue to build and build and then hopefully get to a point where we can select him for the AFL,” Lyon said.

“But that's a few weeks in hand yet.”