Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has confirmed some big ins for his side ahead of their Friday night clash with Richmond.
The Dogs have had their fair share of injury concerns in 2023, the latest being defender Josh Bruce who has done his ACL.
"He [Bruce] goes into surgery today, unfortunately for Josh. It's pretty traumatic for him...it was kind of a lonely rehab period during the pandemic with the other knee. At least he'll have family around," said Beveridge.
"He goes into surgery today with some trepidation and we'll just support him out the other side."
The Bulldogs will welcome back defender Liam Jones after missing the last five weeks with a fractured radius.
"He's one (Jones) that the six-day break doesn't matter because he's had a lengthy rehab period of time. Liam will come back into the team when it's announced this afternoon," the Bulldogs coach stated.
Beveridge also discussed the opportunity to play James O'Donnell. The 20-year-old has managed seven senior games in a defensive role for the Dogs.
"He's (O'Donnell) a candidate to come in," Beveridge said.
"We've got to work out as far as our key position options around the ground, particularly our backline being rundown, whether James comes into those considerations."
The Bulldogs will be aided by the return of winger Ed Richards who overcame illness and is set to play.
Beveridge further provided an update on Sam Darcy who is set for an extended period on the sidelines after suffering an injury in the VFL.
"There's been some positive signs in his recuperation," the premiership coach said.
"Not sure about the timeline. We will be conservative with him to make sure he's totally okay. He's still now got to get some training into him which he's not really on legs yet...which is going to take some time."
When asked about the injury list this year, Beveridge was adamant that the team they field is good enough each and every week.
"We'll put out a team that we believe can beat Richmond as we do every week. For us, being so close to nearly every side that's flipped us in recent times, the frustration is there for our supporters and we get that," said Beveridge.
"But I know the application and the endeavour's there. We just believe we can find that growth, whatever stage of the year we're in and another opportunity to seek it out tomorrow night."
The Bulldogs are set to take on the Tigers under Friday night lights at Marvel Stadium starting at 7:50pm (AEST).
