Sydney will not sit out superstar forward Lance Franklin this season, despite his physical struggles and a season-long lack of training, because the club believes Franklin will not benefit from a rest.

While Franklin’s struggles against Essendon invited suggestions that he needed to be given a break, the Swans have taken the view that Franklin’s fitness issues – the result of a heel injury from round one – will not be improved by giving him a week off.

Sydney's Alex Johnson hasn't played since the 2012 grand final. Credit:AAP

While the injury-hit Swans expect to regain Kieren Jack, possibly Jarrad McVeigh and with Dan Hannebery not yet ruled out for Saturday’s clash with Collingwood as he recovers from a calf, there is also an outside chance that they will select Alex Johnson - who has endured an extraordinary five knee reconstructions - for his long-awaited comeback game.

Johnson, who has not played at senior level since the 2012 grand final, has played the past seven matches for the Sydney reserves in the NEAFL.