Several key players could bolster the Crows for Saturday’s Round 15 clash with West Coast, including two podium finishers from last year’s Club Champion.

All Australian defender Rory Laird (hand), vice-captain Rory Sloane (foot) and recently re-signed forward Tom Lynch (side strain) will all participate in main training on Wednesday and are expected to be available.

Defender Luke Brown will be given every chance to return from an ankle injury but still has some boxes to tick to prove his fitness.

Crows General Manager High Performance Matt Hass said he was really happy with the progress of Laird, Lynch and Sloane.

“Lairdy has done a mountain of work in his rehab. Obviously he has been able to continue all of his running loads,” Hass said.

“We are just now waiting on the ball take and the comfortability marking and handballing.

“Lynchy will train with the group fully on Wednesday and should he get through that he will be available for this week’s game.

“Rory is chomping at the bit, he can’t wait to get back out there. He’s been in full training with the group now for a couple of weeks and he’s ticked all the boxes from a clinical point of view.”

Sam Gibson will also face a fitness test at Wednesday’s training after suffering from back-related hamstring tightness during the Round 13 loss to Hawthorn.

In more positive news, Brodie Smith will take the next step in his return to football this week.

“Brodie has ticked all the boxes up until this point,” Hass said.

“We will transition him back into full contact training with the group as of this week so it’s looking really pleasing.”

Riley Knight will increase his training loads this week and is expected to miss only one more game.

Forward Harry Dear will be sidelined for at least another fortnight with knee soreness.