The Western Bulldogs are dealing with a mixed bag of news, potentially welcoming two players back but losing two others for their upcoming clash with Brisbane on Friday.
Midfielder James Harmes has suffered a minor hamstring strain and is expected to be out for about a month following the injury sustained in their recent win over Collingwood. Utility player Laitham Vandermeer also hurt his hamstring in the same game but might recover quicker, possibly only facing a brief period on the sidelines due to a corked hamstring rather than a strain. His availability for the match against the Lions hinges on proving his fitness in the next few days.
In more positive news, midfielders Tom Liberatore and Ed Richards are set to return from concussion protocols. Liberatore has shown good progress after an extended absence, while Richards is likely to clear the protocols after missing the last game.
Unfortunately, veteran defender Jason Johannisen has encountered a setback in his recovery from a calf injury, delaying his return by at least another month. Forward Cody Weightman (elbow), defender Nick Coffield (shoulder), and key forward Aaron Naughton (knee) are also around a month away from returning to action.
