Freo has injected a double-dose of quality into the side named to play Richmond at Patersons Stadium on Saturday with Luke McPharlin and Nat Fyfe selected to return for the club’s 400th game.
The duo - one who is up there among the greatest players in club history, and one with the potential to one day be - will boost Fremantle significantly for its massive clash against the Tigers.
The duo - one who is up there among the greatest players in club history, and one with the potential to one day be - will boost Fremantle significantly for its massive clash against the Tigers.
The players to make way were Lachie Neale, who has a quad injury, and Dylan Roberton (omitted).
CLICK HERE TO SEE BOTH LINE-UPS
Champion ruckman Aaron Sandilands was named as an emergency along with Tom Sheridan and Roberton.
Assistant coach Mark Stone said Fyfe had ticked just about every box to make his return.
“He’s in the side,” Stone said.
“We trained today so we’ll have to see how he pulls up tomorrow, but talking to him after training, he felt very good.”
Stone said Fyfe’s presence against a brilliant Richmond midfield would be critical.
“His ability to win contested ball and to get from contest to contest, he adds a little more class to our midfield,” he said.
“We really missed him last week against a good side in Adelaide, so he will be an important in this week for us against Richmond, who are playing good football and have a strong midfield.”
McPharlin appears set to stand Richmond spearhead Jack Riewoldt, who trails Coleman Medal leader Matthew Pavlich by three goals this season.
Stone said McPharlin added invaluable experience to the side.
“About 12 years experience to start with,” he said.
“Luke has had a terrific year. He has been solid and hasn’t been beaten too many times.
“He did a good job on Jack Riewdolt back in round 11, so he is pretty important to get back and steady the ship down back for us.”
