Fremantle coach Mark Harvey says his players are on notice to perform or face the cut ahead of Sunday's AFL clash against Essendon at Subiaco Oval.

The Dockers have a bye next week due to the AFL's split round but Harvey said if his players were already thinking about the week off they should think again.

"If players are thinking that way then that will cost you a game and I've spoken about that already," Harvey said.

And the coach also threatened to cancel his players' scheduled time off next week and force them into extra training sessions should he consider their preparation or performance against the Bombers sub-standard.

"If I get any hint or any mindset of that this week in the lead-up to the game and the outcome of the game then I would certainly consider that," Harvey said.

Harvey said defenders Luke McPharlin (bruised ribs) and Michael Johnson (ankle) would be assessed at training on Friday.

Johnson is unlikely to play at this stage but McPharlin is still a chance, according to Harvey.

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