Lachie Neale has spent the majority of the week quarantined in his hotel room after contracting a stomach complaint.
He was one of two changes to Coach Chris Fagan’s side with young defender James Madden omitted.
Local boys Deven Robertson and Jaxon Prior along with Rhys Mathieson, Keidean Coleman, Thomas Berry and Connor Ballenden have been named in the extended squad.
Should Robertson and Prior hold their position when the squad is trimmed on Friday they will play their first AFL games in their hometown on Sunday.
Veteran Daniel Rich says the Club had confidence that whoever came into the side would be able to perform a role.
“I think there’s always guys that are banging down the door, and that’s something I’ve really noticed the last few years,’’ he said.
“We’ve got some good depth in some guys that can play some really important roles for us.
Jack Payne is also in the extended squad and is pushing hard to retain his spot despite being on restricted duties earlier in the week.
The powerful defender suffered a knee injury against the Hawks but was able to return to the field.
“It was a big effort for him to get back out on the ground. He’s been moving around well this week so far, and the good thing is we’ve got until Sunday to completely put the tick there, but he’s done really well,” Rich said.
LIONS INS: Connor Ballenden, Deven Robertson, Jaxon Prior, Rhys Mathieson, Thomas Berry
LIONS OUTS: James Madden (Omitted), Lachie Neale (Illness)
