ROBBIE Gray’s return to football progressed further as the 24-year-old played in his second match post-injury for Port Adelaide's SANFL reserves team.

Gray, who injured his anterior cruciate ligament last April, played as a ‘guest’ for Port Adelaide’s seconds with his aligned side West Adelaide not playing a trial match this weekend.

He appeared to move well and was involved in several packs and contests en route to kicking three goals.

Development manager Daniel Healy was at the game and described Gray’s over 20-possession performance as a “step up”.

But he admits there is still a long way to go for Gray before he is considered for AFL selection.

“He’s still got a lot of work to do as far as his running out of stoppage and his intensity around the contest,” said Healy.

“It was a real step up for him and he looked really sure of himself and really uninhibited in the contest.”

Despite the lower-grade of football he played at, Healy said it was still exciting to see Gray get involved in contests.

“It was a lower level and he probably had more time on ball this week but he got much more involved,” said Healy.

“He (Gray) is really pleased with the way everything's come along and we are as well.

“We’re not putting any limits or timeframe on it (his return), for him it’s about continually improving his running capability, he’s making positive steps.”