Essendon and Carlton dropped three players apiece as they face must-win games ahead of the AFL mid-season break.

Carlton are coming off a surprise loss to North Melbourne, while Geelong smashed Essendon last weekend in the second half.

Bombers key position player Cale Hooker is back from a hamstring injury, while Blues coach Brett Ratten's followed through on his forecast of four changes in total.

The Blues lost Setanta O'hAilpin with a calf muscle injury and dropped Dennis Armfield, Steven Browne and Mitch Robinson for Saturday's Etihad Stadium match against Fremantle.

Paul Bower, Lachie Henderson, Kane Lucas and Chris Yarran are back after returning from injury through the VFL.

The Bombers also lost to Sydney the week before and on Friday night face arch-rivals Hawthorn, who have won their last five games.

Apart from Hooker, Essendon recalled Jarrod Atkinson and Brent Prismall at the expense of Ricky Dyson, David Myers and Courtenay Dempsey.

The Hawks continue to strengthen their side, regaining Chance Bateman from his latest suspension and also including Clinton Young after his thigh injury.

They left out Carl Peterson and Brendan Whitecross.

Fremantle lost Nic Suban with an elbow injury and left out Byron Schammer and Zac Clarke for Matt de Boer, Rhys Palmer and Dylan Robertson.

As expected, the Western Bulldogs named Brad Johnson in their squad for Sunday's Subiaco match against West Coast.

Johnson has played only three matches so far this season, with an Achilles injury keeping him out of action since round six.

Defender Ryan Hargrave is also set to return from an ankle injury.

West Coast have reacted to last Sunday's poor effort against Richmond by naming three newcomers in their squad.

Ashley Smith, Andrew Strijk and Koby Stevens are in contention for senior debuts.

Eagle utility Mark Nicoski is out and he will undergo a shoulder reconstruction, ending his season and placing his AFL career in jeopardy.

Out-of-form Brisbane are unchanged for Saturday night's home match against Richmond.

The Tigers have lost defender Kel Moore with a leg injury and have recalled Will Thursfield.

North Melbourne utility Jamie McMillan will make his senior debut if he makes their final 22 for Sunday's Etihad Stadium match against Port Adelaide.

The Power have lost five straight games and also lost Brett Ebert (ankle), Hamish Hartlett (shoulder) and Steven Salopek (shoulder).

Meanwhile, exciting Melbourne forward Liam Jurrah will finally return through the VFL this weekend.

Jurrah has been out of action since injuring his shoulder in a pre-season loss to Adelaide.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP