Hayden Ballantyne is a strong chance to return against West Coast after recovering from a facial fracture sustained against Geelong in round 17.

High performance manager Jason Weber said Ballantyne had trained strongly during the past two weeks and should be available when the squad is selected on Thursday.

“In the last fortnight he’s really got his running back up to speed,” Weber said.

“He’ll train fully with the team this week and we expect that as soon as he gets through that, he’ll get to match selection.”

Return still beneficial for Sandi

Ruckman Aaron Sandilands will also make his return after suffering fractured ribs and a punctured lung against West Coast in round three.

“Aaron’s trained really strongly over the last couple of weeks since his return to football,” Weber said.

“We anticipate a good week of training with the team, and for him to available later in the week.”