Eagles pair Luke Shuey and Willie Rioli are among the latest names to be included in West Coast's COVID woes, with the pair reportedly set to enter the AFL’s health and safety protocols.
The captain and the livewire forward will miss Sunday's western derby against Fremantle, with tall duo Bailey Williams and Jack Williams joining Liam Duggan in also being ruled out of the match.
Rioli was in great form in his second game back from a three-year stint away from the game due to suspension, recording 18 disposals and four goals, while Shuey led the charge with 23 touches and eight clearances.
Eagles coach Adam Simpson confirmed as many as 15 changes could occur for this weekend after West Coast were forced to make a record 14 changes for their Round 2 encounter.
Simpson also confirmed that at least one COVID contingency top-up player will be required for the derby.
Fremantle have also been hit by COVID, with coach Justin Longmuir set to miss the game on Sunday after being forced into isolation. He has been deemed as a close contact to a case outside the club.
The Dockers may also have some concerns unrelated to COVID, as rising star Caleb Serong has missed training on Thursday, with Fremantle football boss Peter Bell revealing the midfielder has been hampered by injury.
The AFL has granted both clubs an extension in naming their final squads for Sunday’s clash. As COVID cases soar in WA, the 22-man lineups plus emergencies is set to be released on Saturday.
The Eagles will play Fremantle on Sunday at 6.20 pm AEST / 4.20 pm AWST.