The Western Bulldogs are set to be without senior defender Alex Keath for up to six weeks following a hamstring strain sustained in Friday's loss to Brisbane.
Keath was unable to finish the match and has since undergone scans on the ailment, with a moderate strain discovered, per AFL.com.au.ย
The setback will see the 32-year-old unavailable for the next six weeks at least in what is the latest blow to Luke Beveridge's backline stocks.
The Dogs are already without Ryan Gardner (wrist) for over two months, while Jason Johannisen (hamstring) and Nick Coffield (shoulder) are both still some weeks away from their respective returns at least.
2022 first-round draft selection Jedd Busslinger looms as a live chance to make his AFL debut in this week's meeting with Fremantle at Marvel Stadium following his promising patch of form in the VFL.
Keath's absence will force the Dogs into at least one change, while midfielder Ed Richards is set to come into the side that lost to the Lions in Round 13.
Richards has reportedly been cleared following a period in concussion protocols, having missed his side's past two matches.
The defender-turned-onballer might be the only Bulldog to return before the club's Round 15 bye, which could give the likes of Coffield, Cody Weightman (elbow), James Harmes (hamstring) and Aaron Naughton enough time to return also.
Fringe utility Anthony Scott made a successful return through the VFL last Friday and could also be considered for selection this week.
The Bulldogs host Fremantle at Marvel Stadium on Saturday, with their opponents coming off their own mid-season break.
