Fremantle have confirmed Brennan Cox will return to the team for Saturday’s clash with Melbourne at the MCG.
Cox returns to the side in place of captain Alex Pearce, who is being managed.
Midfielder Caleb Serong will lead the team in Pearce’s absence.
Key defender Cox has himself been managed for the past two rounds, missing Optus Stadium wins against the West Coast Eagles and Western Bulldogs.
Speaking at his media conference before departing, senior coach Justin Longmuir said the side was looking forward to their second clash on the MCG this season.
“We’re going over there to give our best - and all we’ve got - to improve our footy against Melbourne, who we know have played some really good footy there,” said Longmuir.
“Would be disrespectful to this game if we got ahead of ourselves.
“We’ve had plenty of experience at the MCG and it shouldn’t hold any fears for us.”
With Pearce missing the clash, Oscar McDonald holds his place in defence after an outstanding game against the Bulldogs.
Mason Cox and Luke Jackson will combine in the ruck to take on eight-time All Australian Max Gawn in what Longmuir described as one of 'great challenges' of football.
“Feel like he’s (Gawn) a great of the game, his form has never been better and his influence on his team and on the game has never been higher either,” said Longmuir.
Longmuir praised the work of Sean Darcy, whose form continues to build in the WAFL with Peel Thunder.
“Sean’s (Darcy) form at WAFL level has been strong,” said Longmuir, after Darcy’s 41 hit-outs and 26 possessions in Peel’s win over Swan Districts last Saturday.
“I thought he took a step forward on the weekend with some of the areas that we’re working on with him. He’s definitely putting pressure on.”
Hugh Davies, Tobyn Murray and Chris Scerri are named as emergencies for the clash.
Fremantle and Melbourne will commence at 1.15pm WST and will be broadcast live on Channel 7 and Fox Footy from 12.30pm, as well as streamed live on Kayo, 7plus and Binge from 12.30pm.
