Superstar forward Lance Franklin looks a certain starter for Hawthorn in their much-anticipated AFL clash with unbeaten Geelong at the MCG on Saturday night.

Franklin missed Hawthorn's win over Fremantle last weekend with a slight calf injury.

But Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson said provided Franklin pulled up well from training on Friday, he would play against the Cats.

"We expect he'll play ... we didn't know too much about it coming out of the Western Bulldogs game but it didn't settle and it was sore," Clarkson said.

"He trained pretty solidly yesterday and pulled up fine today, so I'd imagine he'll be okay to go tomorrow night."

Hawthorn have lost their five clashes with the Cats since beating them in the 2008 grand final.

Midfielder Shane Savage also returns from injury, with youngster Jordan Lisle and defender Kyle Cheney left out.

Geelong regain important duo Paul Chapman and Darren Milburn for the match.

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