The Coaches will have their work cut out for them when it comes to selection this week. 

Ryan Crowley and Mark Baguley will join other injured teammates on the sideline, meaning there are two key positions to be filled.

Coach John Worsfold also indicated that this may be the week to rest the electrifying Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti.

Here are a few of the players we think could be making a strong case for selection this week. 

James Kelly:

The most obvious choice for coaches would to get the veteran back into the side. Kelly has been an integral part of the team since joining earlier this year. His experience and class has been a highlight so far and his leadership important in an otherwise young team. Averaging 26.5 disposals a game, the former Cat has also proven to be versatile – playing in a range of positions.

Benefit: Kelly would be the obvious replacement for Mark Baguley in the backline. He will also be able to push up into the midfield and take some of the pressure off David Zaharakis.

Mathew Stokes:

Stokes is fit and ready to go, overcoming a hamstring strain suffered a few weeks ago. The talented small forward was beginning to find his rhythm and place in the side kicking six goals in just six games,. His experience was also crucial when it came to directing his teammates in the forward line.

Benefit: Stokes’ return to the forward line would mean that Orazio Fantasia and/or Darcy Parish could spend more time in the midfield.He will also draw a more senior Hawthorn defender, taking the pressure off some of our youth.

Jason Ashby:

We’re yet to see from Jason Ashby so far this year and this could be his opportunity to earn senior selection. Ashby has been working hard with Essendon VFL, learning to play further up the ground on the wing while also building his skills as a defender. The 22-year old is averaging 18 disposals, four marks, three tackles and four rebound 50s so far this season.

Benefit: Ashby has demonstrated consistent form with Essendon VFL across the half-back line. If included, his natural game would see him help rebound 50 and get the ball up the ground. 

Nick Kommer:

Kommsy only returned for a short time earlier this year, playing in both rounds 2 and 3. Having spent a huge amount of time out of the game, Kommsy was sent back to the VFL to regain his touch. Since then, he has averaged 16 disposals,  five tackles and kicked three goals for Essendon VFL.

Benefit: Kommsy’s return could benefit the Bombers in a number of ways. His trademark aggression would be useful in maintaining the pressure on the Hawks' defenders. Kommer’s leadership and read on the play will also benefit the entire forward group.

James Polkinghorne:

The ex-Lion has been given limited opportunity so far this season only featuring in four games. He was rested over the last two games but his versatility could be extremely useful this week. In his four games he averaged 12 disposals and three marks playing as a high half-forward.

Benefit: As noted, Polky would bring a great deal of versatility to the team. His ability to play as a midfielder, half-forward or even drop to a half-back position could be extremely valuable against the Hawks.

The other options:

If coaches decide that they want some extra height against the Hawks, Shaun McKernan and Mark Jamar could be considered. Woosha highlighted that there may come a time in the season where the team play an additional ruck. These two could also free up Joe Daniher to focus on purely playing as a forward.

Mason Redman and Conor McKenna are two of the youngsters who are also fit to return and could provide a bit of a spark in the forward line if they get going.