Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson will return from illness on Monday to take charge of his top-of-the-table side.
Hawthorn announced that the decision had been made on the advice of specialists after Clarkson was sidelined for five matches with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
It had been considered that Clarkson would miss a much longer period, with many predicting he would not take charge again until after the 2014 season.
The side has regained its spot on the top of the ladder during his absence, with caretaker coach Brendon Bolton leading the side to five victories from five matches, despite a close shave in his opening game in charge, against Greater Western Sydney.
The Hawks’ victory over the Gold Coast on Saturday, combined with Port Adelaide’s shock loss to Adelaide on Sunday, has put them back on top of the ladder.
Hawthorn chief executive Stuart Fox told the club’s website that Clarkson has gradually taken on more duties over the past few weeks.
“In line with medical advice, Alastair has been involved around the Club over the past couple of weeks in a minor capacity while undertaking an active recovery,” Fox said.
“With endorsement from his doctors, Alastair will return to regular full-time coaching duties from today.”
“We’re really pleased Alastair is healthy and ready to return to work as the team embarks on the second half of the 2014 season.”
“We have been overwhelmed with the messages we’ve received from our members and fans wishing Alastair well and we thank everyone for their support.
“The way our coaching team, playing group and football department staff have pulled together under Brendon Bolton’s leadership during Alastair’s absence has been outstanding.
“It is a credit to our people that this period has been managed so professionally and seamlessly, which has been a team effort from all involved,” he said.
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