ST KILDA could be boosted for its clash against Melbourne next week, with gun defender Jimmy Webster a chance of overcoming a groin injury.

There were initial fears the 24-year-old would miss at least one match after he suffered a strain in last week's win over Gold Coast in the opening quarter.

However, St Kilda head physiotherapist Andrew Wallis told saints.com.au that might not be the case.

"We've had the bye, so that helps us a bit. We hope he'll come back straight after the bye," Wallis said.

Saints skipper Jarryn Geary is also expected to be available after recovering from a calf concern, as he continues to train over the club's bye.

Geary, 29, suffered a left calf strain in the loss to West Coast in round 11 but should be back to face the Demons, while small forward Darren Minchington (hip) and ruckman Lewis Pierce (hamstring) are also expected to be right.

"All have been training really well, so we expect all of them to be available straight after the bye," Wallis said.

Impressive young defender Bailey Rice will train on Saturday, albeit without taking part in contact work, as he bids to be fit to face Melbourne after being concussed against Gold Coast.

Meanwhile, midfielder Blake Acres has his sights set on the round 16 clash with Port Adelaide.

"He's in a conditioning phase at the moment," Wallis said.

"He's back running – in fact has been training for two weeks, so we expect him back pretty soon after the bye, probably a week after."

Ben Long is targeting a late season return.

"He's actually been running for two weeks so he'll step it up. We're looking at five-to-six away from him," Wallis said.