On facing North Melbourne…

“Similarly to the other 16 clubs, we never feel like there’s any game that isn’t a significant challenge. They’ve got a little bit of momentum with the way they’re playing – they’re talking about their desire to win, which is everyone’s (desire) – but they almost got Sydney and were pretty good again last week. We’re looking to bring our best to challenge theirs.

On make-up of team…

“There might be one or two changes. We’ve had a couple of injuries from the previous week so we’re aspirational. We feel like in recent times – and it’s been pretty obvious – that certain things have let us down in a couple of areas of our game.

“Over the journey we’ve always made sure we deployed our absolute best 23 week-to-week, who are well-geared and prepared to beat the opposition. It’ll be no different this week, but we’ll keep giving lads an opportunity if they’ve played well at state-league level, and if they’ve put pressure on guys who maybe have had a dip in confidence and/or drop in form.”

On potential changes…

“Caleb (Poulter) will continue to be considered, but comes into our group now as a 20-year-old that we feel still has a lot of growth in him. He has a really bright future – some of the reasons we brought him in is because of how athletic he is, has a great left-foot, is quick and can play multiple positions. He will be considered from week-to-week, but whether he is one coming in, I can’t tell you right now.

“Mitch (Hannan) is another one who will be considered. He played pretty well the week before as well.

“With guys like Mitch playing some good footy, and obviously Westy came in last week after a couple of solid performances – it’s important and is healthy for us.

“Tim O’Brien went back after being omitted, took it on the chin, fronted up and had a really influential game in Frankston. That’s encouraging for him and for us. He’ll be another one that’s considered.”

On Sam Darcy’s injury…

“He had a plate put in, and also had his four wisdom teeth taken out as well. It was one of those common ones where there’s a bit of weakness in the jaw where your wisdom teeth are, and he had a crack through there that he copped in a marking contest.

“He’s been a bit swollen but will train today. He’ll still be a couple of weeks away I’d say – probably sometime after the bye.”