West Coast veteran Jeremy McGovern will remain in limbo for several more weeks, with the star defender’s wait to front the AFL’s concussion panel set to continue.

McGovern hasn’t played since he was subbed out with concussion in the May 3 clash against Melbourne, with lingering symptoms delaying his return.

The 33-year-old’s future is in the hands of the concussion panel, which is set to have a significant say on whether he will be permitted to add to his 197-game AFL career.

Speaking on Thursday morning, Eagles coach Andrew McQualter said McGovern wouldn’t get the opportunity to face the panel for “a few weeks”.

“It’s a confidential process so we’re not going to go into the detail of it,” McQualter said.

“We’ll have a bit more clarity in a few week’s time of where that sits.

“He’s doing well, he’s well supported and we’ll have a bit more information in a few weeks’ time.”

As revealed by The West Australian, McGovern is already signed on for next season after claiming his maiden John Worsfold Medal last season and earning a fifth All-Australian selection.

It comes as McQualter indicated that top mid-season draftee Tom McCarthy wouldn’t make his debut against North Melbourne down in Bunbury on Sunday.

West Coast have previously handed mid-season draftees AFL games soon after being drafted. Ryan Maric went from being picked up to playing in just 10 days, with Jack Hutchinson (11 days) and Jai Culley (16 days) also making quick debuts.

McCarthy had a stellar WAFL debut with 26 disposals across half-back against Swan Districts, but missed Thursday’s session with a family commitment in Melbourne and appears set to be overlooked.

Fellow mid-season draftee Jacob Newton will line up for the Eagles’ WAFL side against Perth on Saturday after recovering from a quad injury.

“Both Tom and Jacob, they’ve got to learn our system and gameplan,” McQualter said.

“Tom’s got a family commitment back in Melbourne, so he won’t train today. We knew that prior to picking him up in the draft.

“When you’re new you’re still learning a whole new system. He showed some of his strengths in the WAFL game … we’re really excited for their long-term futures at our footy club.”