THE likely return of Nick Riewoldt, Jack Lonie and Sam Gilbert this weekend creates selection headaches for Alan Richardson and his committee.

Only Jimmy Webster (groin) is certain to miss following Sunday’s 63-point loss to Port Adelaide, with Billy Longer expected to train on Thursday and take on Fremantle following a concussion.

The three emergencies who travelled to South Australia were Seb Ross, Cameron Shenton and Nathan Wright.

Each of these three had put together a solid batch of VFL form before Sandringham’s scheduled bye last weekend.

Ross provides midfield depth and is another inside player. The left-footer has played five senior games this season, all in succession from round 10 through to round 15.

Become a member today! Call 1300 GO SAINTS or visit HERE.

In his two games for Sandringham since being omitted, Ross has collected 25 disposals and 15 touches respectively – although the latter performance was due to a hard tag.

On face value, Wright looks to be the most logical replacement for Jimmy Webster. Although Gilbert’s ability to play small and tall may see Wright miss out again.

The courageous back pocket has played three senior games this year and 18 in total.

And then there is Shenton, a former rookie who was drafted as a forward but has spent most of the past two seasons plying his trade in defence.

Like Gilbert, Shenton’s adaptability remains one of his greatest attributes.

Other players that Richardson may consider include Darren Minchington, Josh Saunders and the in-form Blake Acres.

“Blake ended up kicking three goals from the wing and midfield which was an outstanding return,” VFL coach Paul Hudson said after Sandringham’s most recent game.

“His ability to work opponents over and outrun them is how he beats them.”

RELATED: We'll shake things up - Dempster

And then there is Jason Holmes – a US- born rookie who has been in terrific form in the ruck all season. Richardson conceded last week that the left-footer was nearing an AFL debut.

“He has really done well in centre bounce and his ruck craft,” Richardson said.

“He is really quite advanced there and we would really be confident that he could come in and play a role in the ruck.  His marking is certainly getting there and it has progressed really steadily as well as his ability to read the play.

“With the injury to Billings and him now being on the long term injury list both Jason and Ahmed Saad and Brenton Payne are chances to be elevated so we will just wait and see.

“But there is a chance that that could happen so it is very exciting for us and exciting for Holmesy.”

St Kilda will name a squad of 25, including a seven-man extended bench, on Thursday at 6.30pm. This will be trimmed to 22 on Friday evening.