Kennedy ready for WAFL return

15 Aug 2012, 2:01 pm   -   Source: AAP
Eagles forward Josh Kennedy is a good chance to play in their AFL blockbuster against Collingwood. (AAP)

Eagles forward Josh Kennedy is a good chance to play in their AFL blockbuster against Collingwood. (AAP)

West Coast forward Josh Kennedy is a chance to play in next week's blockbuster against Collingwood if he can make it through a WAFL hit-out on Sunday.

West Coast coach John Worsfold is confident Josh Kennedy will make an immediate impact for the Eagles when the key forward resumes AFL duties in the coming weeks.

Kennedy hasn't played since injuring his ankle in round five but is on track to make his return via WAFL side East Fremantle in their clash with West Perth on Sunday.

If the 24-year-old makes it through that match unscathed, he would be a chance to make his AFL return in West Coast's blockbuster home encounter against Collingwood on August 25, or against Hawthorn a week later.

West Coast are desperate for Kennedy to return, with the fifth-placed Eagles still confident of making it through to the grand final even if they miss out on a top-four berth.

Kennedy booted 59 goals last season and would add vital potency to a West Coast forward line that has been decimated by injuries this season.

And although some pundits doubt whether Kennedy could make much of an impact after so long on the sidelines, Worsfold said the 194cm spearhead had done the hard yards and could have even made his AFL return this weekend.

"No one's wanted to do any of the running with him because he's going too hard," Worsfold said on Monday.

"It's enticing to bring him in (to the Eagles' line-up this week) and play him, use him as a sub or play him and sub him out of the game.

"I've got no doubt he could do that and contribute to the team, but it's not necessarily the best preparation for him to get him through the rest of the season."

Wingman Matt Rosa (jaw), defender Sam Butler (calf) and utility Brad Sheppard (ankle) are all chances to return in Sunday's clash with struggling Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

The Eagles need to win their remaining games against Port Adelaide, Collingwood and Hawthorn to have any chance of snaring a top-four berth.

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