A virus will keep Western Bulldogs half-forward Shaun Higgins out of Sunday's clash against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

Higgins was on Friday replaced by midfielder Nathan Eagleton in the only change to the Bulldogs side following last weekend's thrashing of North Melbourne.

The Crows made three changes, but were boosted by the long-awaited return of half-forward Chris Knights, who has not played since round five because of foot and abdominal injuries.

Back pocket Graham Johncock also returned, along with Brodie Martin, while Matthew Jaensch and Jack Gunston were dropped and forward Patrick Dangerfield (hand) was forced out.

St Kilda regained some handy players for Sunday's game against Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium, as half-forward Andrew McQualter, tagger Clint Jones and defender Robert Eddy returned to the side.

Young players Tom Lynch and Jack Steven were dropped and fullback Zac Dawson (hand) could not be considered.

Port recalled Tom Logan and Matt Thomas for the dropped Mitch Banner and injured Nick Salter (calf).

Melbourne named midfielders Brent Moloney and Jack Trengove to replace onballer Nathan Jones and defender Cale Morton for Sunday's game against Richmond at the MCG.

The Tigers are unchanged.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP