West Coast will launch an in-depth review into their injury crisis in a bid to rocket back into AFL premiership contention next year.
The Eagles have been hit hard by injuries to key players this year, and were missing 10 of their best 22 in last week's shock loss to the Bulldogs.
Stars such as Nic Naitanui, Daniel Kerr, Sharrod Wellingham and Mark LeCras have struggled to stay out on the park and reach top form, while the season is already over for Beau Waters, Mark Nicoski and Shannon Hurn.
West Coast started the season as second favourites for the premiership, but are now almost certain to miss the finals after slipping three wins behind eighth spot.
With a top-eight berth highly unlikely, West Coast have already cast one eye towards preparing for next season.
Worsfold said a review into the club's injury woes was one of his top priorities, claiming it was vital for the team to keep their best players on the park if they are to achieve success next year.
"I believe it's probably the most critical thing that we need to turn around," Worsfold said on Wednesday.
"To be at your absolute best, you have to have your best team on the field for as many weeks of the season as possible. We haven't got anywhere close to that this year.
"A lot of them have been serious injuries as well."
The Eagles are set to welcome back a host of players for Saturday's home match against Gold Coast, with skipper Darren Glass, Matt Rosa, Andrew Embley, Patrick McGinnity and Brad Sheppard all fit and ready for recalls.
Veteran midfielder Kerr is likely to resume via WAFL ranks after overcoming a swollen knee, but Naitanui will be rested for at least another week and is no certainty to play again this year.
Midfielder Chris Masten has been cleared of any fracture or bone damage to his injured ankle, but has been placed in a moon boot and will miss several games.
Forward Mark LeCras (foot) and midfielder Luke Shuey (hamstring) are others still nursing injuries.
Worsfold said the club was still unsure about the exact nature of LeCras' injury.
"He's had an MRI and bone scan, and there's no bone damage in there," Worsfold said.
"So exactly what's causing the pain, we're not sure."
Share
