Swans midfielder Craig Bird hasn’t ruled out playing AFL football this season despite recurring injuries and limited game time.

Bird, who played his first game of football in five weeks in the Swans’ NEAFL clash with UWS Giants, will throw his hat in the ring as early as Thursday when Match Committee comes together for ahead of Round 22.

Bird played about 45 minutes on Saturday before his afternoon ended just after half-time, tentative steps as the 2012 Premiership player recovers from recurring calf and heel injuries.

“It was really good to be back out there after a few weeks on the sidelines,” Bird said.

“I pulled up OK so hopefully I can play a little more game time this weekend.”

When that will be is up to the coach with Bird giving himself every chance to be considered for Sunday’s clash with St Kilda.

Having torn his calf in the Swans’ Round 16 clash against Hawthorn, Bird has since had to deal with a shoulder injury suffered in the NEAFL and a heel issue which has plagued him all season.

The 26-year-old has played six senior games in 2015, a frustrating season especially after managing 21 matches last season.

While only two rounds left of the home and away season, Bird focus on making the most of the time left in the hope – if not Sunday or Saturday week against Gold Coast – play a hand comes finals time.

“I have had a pretty frustrating season with injury but hopefully I can put all that behind me,” Bird added.

“I’m focusing on my match fitness this week and hopefully I can play well enough to put my hand up for seniors come finals time.

“But you just never know what can happen at selection.”