Brisbane Lions running defender Keidean Coleman will miss this weekend's clash with Fremantle at Optus Stadium as he continues to deal with an eye injury.

Following a disappointing Q-Clash defeat to the Gold Coast Suns last weekend, the Lions will be looking to hit back against Fremantle in hopes of keeping their top-two chances alive. However, they will have to do so without their well-composed half-back-flanker.

Coleman received an eye injury after being dealt a blow to the face against the Suns that will be assessed across the next few days.

The aerobically-gifted accumulator will be sorely missed from the Lions' lineup due to his ability to create space and move the ball with precision and control.

However, in a positive turn, it is likely he will only miss this weekend's bout and should be fit to play in Round 22 when Brisbane plays the Adelaide Crows at the Gabba.

As a result of Coleman's absence, the Lions could call upon forgotten rebounding defender Daniel Rich to return after dropping himself from team selection in June.

Meanwhile, the Lions are also assessing ruckman Oscar McInerney after he rolled his ankle during a contest against the Suns. Fellow ruckman Darcy Fort is waiting in the wings if McInerney can't make a full recovery before flying to Perth, with Fremantle's athletic ruck-forward Luke Jackson ready and waiting.

In positive news for Lions supporters, midfielder-forward Zac Bailey will return to coach Chris Fagan's side, after missing since Round 18 with a calf ailment.

The Lions take on the Dockers at Optus Stadium on Sunday, August 6 at 2:40 PM local time.