Sean Darcy is a good chance to return to the Fremantle lineup for Saturday’s clash with Hawthorn in Launceston, according to general manager of football Peter Bell.

The ruckman was managed for Fremantle’s clash against West Coast and Bell said the 21-year-old could replace veteran Aaron Sandilands for the one of the longest away trips in football.

Sandilands made his return from injury against West Coast after more than a year out due to injury.

“Aaron performed admirably (against West Coast) and he was really courageous in standing under a few high balls as well,” Bell told 6PR.

“It’s a big ask coming off a year out of football and we know the athleticism of Nic Naitanui and the running ability of Tom Hickey as well. We also brought Rory back from injury after he had been out of the game for a few weeks.

“We have Sean as well who we thought we needed to manage through last weekend.

“More than likely Sean will be playing against the Hawks down in Tasmania but I’m sure we’ll see Aaron again, if not the week after but certainly through the latter third of the season.”

Bell added that Fremantle are looking to protect captain Nat Fyfe as much as possible with the star midfielder often playing on the most physical opposition players.

“Nat is certainly such a physical player and he cops a lot of punishment within the contest,” Bell said.

“Being an elite player in the AFL, like most elite players, he does cop a bit of treatment off the ball as well, and that’s been over the course of the season.

“He’s been really durable and we’re thrilled with the amount of footy he’s been able to play this year, just missing the one game through concussion.

“It’s about us protecting him as much as well can and giving him support.”