Eagles to play it safe in AFL with Selwood

West Coast will be aiming to snap a five-match losing run against Fremantle when the two teams lock horns on Sunday.

West Coast coach Adam Simpson says he'll take a cautious approach with Scott Selwood as the star midfielder continues to grapple with an ankle issue.

Selwood missed last week's AFL win over Carlton because of ankle soreness.

It's the same ankle that was operated on last year, and the 25-year-old appears unlikely to return for Sunday's western derby against Fremantle.

"It's a delicate area with his foot," Simpson told Perth radio station 6PR.

"He's come off a couple of operations over the break. Although it's a different area on his ankle, it's still around that area.

"So we're really cautious. We won't be taking any risks if he's not right.

"We'll find out later in the week (if he can play against Fremantle). He'll be touch and go. I've got my fingers crossed."

Forward Jack Darling (foot) is set to ramp up his training loads next week, paving the way for a possible AFL return in the May 16 clash with Gold Coast in Perth.

West Coast were slick and ruthless in their 69-point demolition of Carlton last Friday.

The win was made all the more impressive given the Eagles were without key players Selwood, Eric Mackenzie, and Mitch Brown.

Second-gamer Jackson Nelson has slotted in seamlessly to the team's defence, while second-year midfielder Dom Sheed is also playing an important role.

"We're quite excited with what the future holds for our group," Simpson said.

"We've been hit with a bit of adversity at the moment with injuries.

"But I'm really pleased our young guys have stood up and accepted the responsibility.

"We've also got players playing in different positions. Overall their attitude has been really good."

Fremantle have won the past five derbies against West Coast, but they'll be without suspended goalsneak Hayden Ballantyne for Sunday's grudge match.

Ruckman Zac Clarke is also in doubt because of a knee injury sustained in last week's win over Geelong.


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