Experienced ruckman Stefan Martin could be available for selection this week.

The 34-year-old last played at AFL level since round 12, firstly due to a shoulder injury and then a persistent groin and hip issue.

Martin has made progress from the latter injury over the past month and could be considered to face Port Adelaide, as the Bulldogs look to lock in a top four spot.

“Stef has built a base and got some continuity into his training over the last month,” head of sports medicine, Chris Bell, said.

“He completed a match-like training session on the weekend and has come through without any major concerns.

“Stef will come back into full training this week. If he trains like I expect, he will put his hand up for selection.”

The Bulldogs could also have forward-turned-defender Josh Schache available to return from a knee issue.

“He wasn’t able to complete our main training session last week at 100 per cent, so he didn’t play on the weekend,” Bell said.

“Josh will come back into full training this week. We expect him to be available.”

Ryan Gardner (shoulder) and Louis Butler (calf) have both returned to availability.

Injury list
Louis Butler (calf) – available
Ryan Gardner (shoulder) – available
Stefan Martin (groin/hip) – test
Josh Schache (knee) – test
Josh Bruce (knee) – season
Toby McLean (knee) – season