Western Bulldogs forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is unlikely to make the trip to Perth this weekend despite returning to training on Wednesday.
Ugle-Hagan missed his side's Round 6 win over St Kilda due to personal reasons, with the young Dog returning home last week to be with family.
The 22-year-old's return timeframe was unclear for coach Luke Beveridge following the club's 60-point win, with Ugle-Hagan in doubt for this Saturday's clash against the Dockers.
Speaking to media on Wednesday, Beveridge said Ugle-Hagan is unlikely to play at any level, with the club placing a priority on the former No.1 pick's wellbeing.
"It's unlikely he'll play this week," Beveridge said.
"We've made sure he's okay, he's processing a few things. He might not play this week at all. I can't really give you much more than that. He's back in today for the first full day, he'll train and we'll get him going again.
"He's had some relations pass in recent times too. He's had that grieving and mourning aspect of his life that's compounded things for him.
"We'll look after him. Hopefully he can play some footy again soon, but that's not the priority at the moment."
Ugle-Hagan's expected absence will likely mean Rory Lobb holds his place in Beveridge's side and will face his former club at Optus Stadium this weekend.
The Bulldogs are anticipated to have midfielder Tom Liberatore back from concussion protocols, with the veteran onballer remaining to show no symptoms following his fall against Essendon almost a fortnight ago.
As for premiership utility Caleb Daniel, the Bulldog is "unlikely" to come into Beveridge's side this week due to limited spots on offer at selection as Taylor Duryea and Lachie Bramble hold their place in the side.
The Dogs will weigh up whether they still bring Daniel with them for the trip to Western Australia as a carry-over emergency, or keep him in Victoria for Footscray's game against the AFL Academy.
"Week to week, as far as doing enough, you can always lean on his experiment to come in and do a role for you," Beveridge said of Daniel.
"Now it's whether or not there's a spot there. Our backline played pretty well last week. It's just whether or not there's a spot there for CD.
"We know he can play other roles. Unlikely to come in this week, but we might take him to Perth in case we need him."
The Western Bulldogs face Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Saturday at 7:40pm (AEST).
