St Kilda will look to regain some experience this week, with Jack Macrae and Liam Stocker both in the frame to face the Western Bulldogs on Thursday night.

The pair, who have been key contributors to the Saints’ first half of the season, will be available for selection after passing respective fitness tests during the squad’s main training session this morning.

Unfortunately, Mattaes Phillipou has been ruled out of Thursday’s clash, with senior coach, Ross Lyon confirming today the 20-year-old will be given more time to ensure his plantaris muscle is fully recovered before returning to play.

Excitingly, 2023 recruit Paddy Dow is on the verge of playing his first game for the year after overcoming a serious knee infection that required multiple surgeries over the Christmas break.

The 25-year-old has been building steadily since recording his first run in early April.

“It’s really exciting news for Paddy and the entire club to see him progressing after such a serious injury,” EGM Football David Misson said.

“It’s a testament to the work of our medical and strength and conditioning teams along with all the work Paddy has put in, and we’re thrilled to see him closing in on a return.”

The full squad selection to face the western Bulldogs will be announced tomorrow night at 6:20pm.

INJURY LIST

Mattaes Phillipou | Plantaris (Calf) | TBC

Paddy Dow | Knee | 1 Week

Dougal Howard | Hamstring | 2-3 Weeks

Zaine Cordy | Pec | 4 Weeks

Max King | Knee | TBC