The Western Bulldogs could be bolstered by the returns of Tim English and Taylor Duryea this week as the duo regain full fitness following bouts of the flu.
The Bulldogs have won back-to-back games for the first time this year after triumphing Gold Coast in Round 10 and will search for three on the trot when taking on West Coast in Perth this weekend.
English hasn’t played since Round 5 while Duryea has missed just one game, but both are expected to take to Optus Stadium against the Eagles.
English, in particular, would be a big boost to the Dogs. He was averaging career highs in disposals (22), hitouts (22), clearances (6) and inside 50s (4) before suffering a hamstring injury earlier in the season.
“Taylor and Tim were able to complete a game like training session on the weekend,” Head of Sports Medicine, Chris Bell told westernbulldogs.com.au.
“Both players are back to full energy and knocking down the door to be considered this week.
“If both get through training this week like I expect, both will return to availability.
“Jason Johannisen is a day or two behind (with a similar illness) but has turned the corner and is back into a full training model.
“We will determine JJ’s plan and if he pulls on the jumper over the coming days.”
Meanwhile, Cody Weightman remains a chance for an early return this weekend.
The 21-year-old fractured his collarbone against the Power in Round 8, but just three weeks on, could play either AFL or VFL this weekend.
“Cody has progressed faster than expected following his collarbone fracture,” Bell said.
“He has regained full function and strength of his shoulder and the surgeon is happy with his progress.”
“He still needs to tick some boxes throughout this week and get through a solid main training session on Wednesday before we decide if he returns to availability this weekend.”
Weightman has kicked 12 goals in eight games this season.