PATIENCE has proved a virtue for Port Adelaide ruckman Jarrad Redden, who will return to the AFL against the Sydney Swans on Saturday night - 679 days after his last senior outing.

The 205cm ruckman didn't play at all in 2014, having undergone a pre-season operation on his knee only to require another in May. 

His ruined season followed a 2013 campaign also restricted by injury, with hip, shoulder and knee issues keeping him to just six games.

Redden began running again during last year's finals series and helped raise $44,000 in November by riding 220km in support of an injured friend.

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Prior to a dislocated shoulder suffered against the Western Bulldogs in round 10, 2013, the 24-year-old was locked in a competitive fight with Matthew Lobbe for the club's ruck mantle.

In Redden's absence, Lobbe has emerged as one of the League's leading ruckmen and averaged 32 hit-outs and almost seven tackles a game last year.

But he was unable to pass a fitness test this week after being a late withdrawal last Sunday with quad tightness – opening the door for Redden's inclusion.

Given his importance to the team's premiership hopes, the Power said Lobbe wouldn't be rushed back.

"Matty couldn't get through his fitness test this week, and he'll continue progressing through his rehab next week," high performance manager Darren Burgess told the club's website.

"We're not going to risk him this early in the season and will make sure he returns fully fit as soon as possible."