Curnow has not played an AFL game since round 15, 2019 due to a serious of knee issues which has halted the promising career of the talented tall.

Just a game prior to his last appearance, Curnow booted a career-best seven goals as Carlton fell just short of a famous last-quarter comeback against the Western Bulldogs.

His performances across 2018 and 2019 saw him labelled as Carlton's most exciting and promising player, drawing comparisons with former club champion Anthony Koutoufides.

Despite a grim outlook on his knee in recent times, Curnow is back training with the Blues and on Thursday looked comfortable completing drills and taking set shots at goal.

However, Carlton coach David Teague said the club would not be deviating from its strict program for Curnow.

"The plan is not for him to play until later in the year and that plan won't change. We're thinking longer term for Charlie," Teague said.

"If (Curnow) had his way he'd be pushing it up right now. We've done a fair bit of research, got a lot of experts' opinions and we've come up with a strong plan that we'll stick to.

"His knee's looking really good. It's the best his knee's looked (for a long time). He's on track to the plan that we've had."

If Curnow is able to return to near his best, Carlton would have a frightening tall forward line with Harry McKay developing nicely during the past two seasons.

Australian Associated Press