Patrick Ambrose has been ruled out of the Bombers match against Richmond on Saturday night.

There were hopes last week that he may be able to make an earlier than expected return from his quad injury.

But fitness staff will take a cautious approach and expect the defender to play in next week’s match against GWS. 

“He probably hasn’t been quite as clean as we needed for him to get up this weekend,” High Performance Manager Justin Crow said.

“We’re going to give him the extra week to make sure he’s right for GWS.”

Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker received treatment late in the Bombers win over West Coast last Sunday, but the All-Australians will play in the Dreamtime at the ‘G clash.

Hurley fell heavily late in the match against the Eagles and suffered minor whiplash.

“He may not train until later in the week but he’s in very good condition and we expect him to play,” Crow said.

Hooker ended the game on the bench with a corked thigh but he’s also on track to play against the Tigers.

Shaun McKernan is a strong chance to be available as he continues his recovery from a hand injury.

The versatile big man missed last week after hurting his hand against Geelong in the VFL.

“He’s come out of surgery really well, his hand looks good,” Crow said.

“He’s been handing the ball, he did a skill based session on the weekend.

“Main training tomorrow will be his main test, if he can train well tomorrow and show he can handle the ball then he’ll play.”

Aaron Francis missed last week with a groin problem but he’s resumed running and is expected to be available.

Jordan Ridley is now in full training and is expected to be available next week.

The first year player has been sidelined since March with a back problem.