Switkowski eases into action

After a long injury layoff, Fremantle will welcome back pressure forward Sam Switkowski against West Coast on Saturday.

After recovering from back stress fractures, Switkowski was Fremantle’s only inclusion at the selection table.

However, the 25-year-old was on light duties at Friday’s captain run.

Switkowski started the session walking laps alongside Alex Pearce and Josh Treacy before completing some light skills work alongside other managed teammates.

After an extensive build back to match fitness, it should prove a smart decision to manage Switkowski’s load given how important he is to Fremantle’s forward structure.

Rory the main man

With Matt Taberner sidelined once again with injury, the Dockers are backing Rory Lobb in as their main man up forward after his heroic outing against the Western Bulldogs.

With rain predicted all day Saturday, Fremantle have opted for a smaller forward line with Switkowski named to replace Taberner.

Lobb is still likely to have some support from swingman Griffin Logue, with the latter spotted practising set shots at training on Friday.

But Lobb still faces a tough match-up against in-form West Coast defender Tom Barrass, who has blanketed Taylor Walker, Max King and Mitchell Lewis in recent weeks.

Lobb was full of energy on Friday and looks to have overcome the shoulder complaint that has limited him in recent weeks.

“He’s a massive part of our forward line and our team, and we love what he brings,” Lachie Schultz said of Lobb earlier this week.

“I’m sure he will flourish this week being the main man, and he’ll definitely be looking forward to it.

“When he’s up and about it goes a long way to us winning. Hopefully he can keep putting in performances like that and the rest will take care of itself.”

Fyfe’s build

Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe has his sights set on returning in the final round of the home-and-away season after getting through another week of rehab.

Fyfe didn’t do too much to test his injured hamstring at training on Friday but impressed with his sharp skills.

“Everything is going according to plan so far,” Fyfe told club media.

“I’m two weeks into my rehab and starting to hit some good speed. I’m on track to play some AFL footy in the next week or two.”

The two-time Brownlow medallist also gave invaluable support to his teammates as they prepare to fight for a spot in the top four in the final fortnight of the season.