GWS star Josh Kelly is expected to return against Brisbane, while Lions forward Eric Hipwood is a possibility for the top four clash.

Influential ball-winner Kelly has been cleared to return to action after missing the last five games with a calf injury, giving the Giants team a huge boost.

Hipwood must complete training on Thursday to be ready for Saturday’s game at the Gabba.

The Lions’ main striker, who has scored 29 goals in 18 games this season, had to sit out the last round win over St Kilda with groin pain.

Key defender Darragh Joyce could make his first appearance for Hipwood since breaking his jaw in the Round 19 match against Sydney, while GWS midfielder Stephen Coniglio (shoulder) could also return.

Geelong are hoping to welcome back Sam De Koning for their top eight clash against Fremantle after the young defender avoided a serious injury to his right knee.

“Sam was unfortunately substituted in the game against the Crows at the weekend due to a knee injury,” said Geelong football boss Brett Johnson.

“We will continue to monitor his progress throughout the week and his readiness to play ahead of the game against Fremantle.”

Gary Rohan (concussion) is a challenge after missing the last round, but defender Mark O’Connor will be out for one to two weeks with a knee injury.

Tom Hawkins, who announced his retirement at the end of the season on Tuesday, will be out for two weeks after a foot injury.

There is good news for injury-plagued Collingwood: striker Nathan Kreuger has been cleared of concussion protocols and will be available for the game against the Swans.

Gold Coast duo Levi Casboult (thigh) and Sam Day (foot) are expected to strengthen the Suns’ forward line, while co-captain Touk Miller (wrist) is hoping to return in the 23rd round.

Other players eligible for selection this week include Hawthorn ruck Ned Reeves (back), Port Adelaide ruck Ivan Soldo (knee), forward Todd Marshall (hip) and Western Bulldogs forward James Harmes (hamstring).