Justin Longmuir says it’s ‘very likely’ the likes of Alex Pearce, Darcy Tucker and Caleb Serong will be fit for selection for Sunday’s clash against Essendon at Marvel Stadium, giving no guarantee that some of Freo’s impressive young players will keep their spots.

The returning Senior Coach, who has missed the past two weeks under the AFL’s Health and Safety Protocols, faces some tough decisions after a strong team performance in Freo’s 34-point round four win against GWS.

Serong has missed the past fortnight due to a minor knee injury, while Pearce (ankle) and Tucker (concussion) sat out the Giants clash.

“Caleb will have to get through main training, but all indications are that he’s over it and he’ll be able to return this week,” Longmuir told 7NEWS.

“We’re never quite sure until we tick that final box of main training.

“(Pearce and Tucker) are very likely. We’re very confident that both of them will come up, likewise with Caleb, they’ll have to get through main training but all signs are positive at this stage.”

Longmuir has been impressed with how midfielders Neil Erasmus and Nathan O’Driscoll have started their AFL careers.

Erasmus is averaging 16.5 disposals from his two games while O’Driscoll has kicked at least one goal in each of his three appearances, highlighted by his 20 disposals and two goals against the Giants.

Despite their efforts, Longmuir said no players’ spot was safe.

“We’ll have to weigh it up and every individual will get treated on their merits,” Longmuir said.

“I’ve been really impressed with both of those guys (Erasmus and O’Driscoll), their adaption to step up for AFL footy. Whether they’re in the team this week or not, they’ll continue to go about their business by becoming better footballers and that can be done at whatever level you play at.”

Longmuir praised the work of stand in coach Jaymie Graham after his two weeks away from the Club.

“I had full faith in the coaching group and the football department to stand up and take the reins while I wasn’t there,” Longmuir said.

“They did a fantastic job in preparing the players and the players did a fantastic job of executing the plan.

“It’s good to be over the virus and it’s good to be back at work. I’m looking forward to getting stuck into it.”

Longmuir said new recruit Will Brodie had been leading the way in the midfield in the absence of Nat Fyfe this season, as well as David Mundy in recent games.

Brodie had a career best 37 disposals and 21 contested possessions against GWS, earning 10 coaches votes.

“We’re very pleased with the acquisition, we’ve been a little injury hit through the midfield and he’s been a constant there over the past eight weeks. He’s performing his role really well,” Longmuir said.

“I like the way he goes about the contested and pressure side of his game. For an inside mid, that’s really important. He’s leading the way in our midfield really well.”

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