North Melbourne’s key forward stocks could pose problems for the Bombers according to Robert Shaw.

Jarrad Waite, Ben Brown and Drew Petrie have kicked 48 goals between them throughout the Kanagroos undefeated run this season.

Complicating matters for the Bombers is the absence of James Gwilt.

The key defender is being rested this week leaving Nathan Grima, Michael Hartley, Matt Dea and Patrick Ambrose as possible options to man the Kangaroos key forwards.

“It’s interesting because of the three big blokes (being) in exceptional form,” Shaw said.

“Waite with his mobility and marking, Petrie is the go-to man inside 50 and of course Brown…and don’t forget Goldstein going forward.

“On paper the height factor is a concern.

“Sam Michael who has played quite a bit of football in the VFL in the backline has been named on the emergency list, that’s an interesting selection and of course with McKernan out, they’ve got a choice to use Ambrose either as the lead-up centre half forward or to play as the third tall (defender).

“With his fitness he can run with Waite and he can run with Brown.

“They are very good marking players but their mobility is very important.”

Ambrose was recalled to the side alongside Darcy Parish, Kyle Langford and Conor McKenna.

Shaw said the inclusion of McKenna could see Orazio Fantasia move back to the midfield, where he proved a high possession winner (29 possessions against Geelong and 25 against Collingwood) earlier in the season.

“Hopefully it’s (the decision to recall McKenna) because he will play more his traditional role as a crumber and allow Orazio Fantasia more time in the midfield on the wing,” Shaw said.

“Etihad Stadium is a quick transition ground."

John Worsfold sprung a surprise last week when Mark Baguley lined up in the forward line.

The renowned defender had three shots at goal and also laid five tackles against the Swans.

But Shaw said the make-up of the team suggests Baguley may have to revert back to his more common role.

“With Dempsey out and McKenna coming in, my gut feel is he might have to go back to Harvey (or) he might have to go back to Lindsay Thomas and play his traditional role,” he said.