The Sydney Swans are hopeful that super forward Buddy Franklin will take his place in the clubs second match in the pre – season competition.

Franklin underwent surgery to repair a shoulder injury shortly after the grand final  loss to the Bulldogs and has been in impressive shape on the training paddock so far.

Swans assistant coach David Kirk (pictured) says while this weekends hitout against North in Coffs Harbour is a bridge to far, the club expects Franklin to turn out in the following weeks matchup against cross town rivals GWS.