THREE Fremantle players are likely out of action and another five in doubt in the lead up to their Round 1 clash against Port Adelaide.

During today’s injury update, Freo senior coach Ross Lyon said both midfielder Nick Suban and defender Alex Silvagni are unlikely to play in the opening round.

Suban suffered a right hamstring injury during Freo’s NAB Challenge match against the Eagles on Saturday. He was subbed out early in the first quarter.

“It looks like a grade one hamstring,” Lyon said.

“I would think it’s not ideal.”

Silvagni injured a hamstring at training during the week and is set to sit the first game out.

Newly re-signed defender Zac Dawson will also be unavailable for the opening match due to ongoing groin soreness.

Paul Duffield, Michael Barlow, Tendai Mzungu and Matt Taberner remain in the grey at this stage, as they work to prove themselves fit to play. Duffield recently suffered a rib injury, Barlow an ankle, Mzungu a tightened hamstring and Taberner Achilles soreness.

Further, All-Australian selection and star forward Hayden Ballantyne is battling a calf problem, but says he’s hopeful he’ll be ready in time for the Port clash.

Port Adelaide will take on Fremantle in Round 1 on April 5 at Domain Stadium in Perth.