VETERAN Swans forward Michael O’Loughlin is confident he’ll be at peak fitness by round three of the 2009 AFL Premiership season but remains in doubt for round one.

O’Loughlin, who turns 32 this week, badly injured his ankle against Carlton in round 16 last season and underwent surgery to have a pin placed in the joint when the Swans bowed out of the finals.

The Swans’ games record holder has had the pin removed and is on track to resume training with his teammates in a fortnight.

O’Loughlin has endured his fair share of injuries during his 14-year career and said he didn’t expect another limited pre-season to impact on his performance in 2009.

“I heal pretty well, so I’m aiming for round one, but that’s touch and go. By round two or three, I hope to be back to full strength,” O’Loughlin said.

“The ankle has taken its time, but I started running a few of weeks ago. Its frustrating watching the guys train and having to go off and work by yourself, like when you’re swimming or on the rowing machine.

“It gets on your nerves a little bit, but I’ve dealt with injuries in the past, so it’s nothing new to me and being on a limited pre-season leading into the games I’m pretty much used to it.”

The Swans kick of their NAB Cup campaign against Port Adelaide in Canberra on Sunday.

Coach Paul Roos will be looking to blood some youngsters as the club endeavours to find replacements for retired duo Tadhg Kennelly and Nic Fosdike.

O’Loughlin, who is just 14 games away from the 300-milestone, said the NAB Cup would provide a great opportunity for young players to put their hand up for one of the vacant spots on the club’s senior list.

Leo Barry was also put on the long-term injury list on Monday.

“We’re definitely going to miss Tadhg and Nic. Tadhg was probably our most important player along with Goodesy (Adam Goodes) and Brett Kirk and it’s sad that he’s gone,” O’Loughlin said.

“It gives another guy an opportunity, but how do you replace a player like Tadhg Kennelly, who gives you so much drive? Other players have got to step and I’m pretty sure they will.

“There are a number of regular players, who have had surgery over the break that will be eased back in through the NAB Cup. So there are going to be chances for guys, if they’re good enough and work hard enough, to stake their claim on a spot for round one.”