Ross Lyon feels the Fremantle playing group is as ready as they’ve ever been as they prepare for RAC Derby 50 at Optus Stadium on Saturday night. 

The game pits the eighth placed Freo against the third placed Eagles, setting up one of most anticipated Derby clashes in the past few seasons.

Fremantle are looking to win their first derby since 2015, and Lyon feels the team has prepared well. 

“It’s important for our club, we’re all representing our club and we want to make our members proud,” Lyon said.

“Ultimately, you’re judged by your performance on the field and there’s no hiding from that fact, but I think we’re as well as prepared as we’ve been for a long time.

“It’s a home Derby, the RAC Derby and the 50th Derby so it’s significant as a club that we want to play well in front of our home fans and members and corporate partners.”

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There is plenty riding on Fremantle’s main training session on Thursday afternoon, with ruckmen Aaron Sandilands and Rory Lobb looking to prove their fitness.

Lyon declared Lobb (foot) would return if he gets through the session, while 36-year-old veteran Sandilands (calf) could also be available. 

Sandilands may be called straight into the side to face Eagles star Nic Naitanui after more than a year since his last game.  

"Get your hand to the ball is a nice starting point (if Sandilands comes back)," Lyon said. 

"We've got a really strong midfield, we think it's been the backbone of our team and typically games are won and lost in there.

"We've got full availability and the only missing link … has been the hand to the ball or predictable area. 

"That would be important for us, particularly against the quality we're coming up against."