Port Adelaide utility Paul Stewart is pressing for a shock AFL recall, just a month after breaking an arm.
The Power initially believed Stewart's season was over when he broke two bones in his left forearm in round 19.
But after missing just three games, Stewart is bidding to play against Carlton on Saturday - Port's last minor-round game before the club's first finals campaign since 2007.
Ex-captain Dom Cassisi also wants to return from a hamstring ailment while young defender Jack Hombsch is rated an outside chance to come back from a fractured cheekbone.
"To have those guys challenging for spots is great and it's going to make training a whole lot more competitive," Port captain Travis Boak told reporters on Wednesday.
"It's a great thing to have leading into finals.
"Obviously Stewy has done great, hopefully only missing a couple of games, and Hombschy as well.
"Those guys are quality players and we need them in our side. Hopefully they can get back in and play some good footy."
Port are guaranteed to finish no lower than seventh and an away elimination final looms. But first, they meet a Carlton side playing for their season on Saturday.
If the Blues win, they will make the finals. But if they lose, their fate rests with other results.
Boak said the high stakes for Carlton ensured a desperate match on Saturday, with Port wanting a win to take momentum into the finals.
"This week is very important for us. We are going to treat it as a big game ... we know we have got to go in with good form and momentum," he said.
"And obviously it's the last game at AAMI (Stadium) as well so there is a lot to play for."
AFL games will move to a redeveloped Adelaide Oval next season.
