Key forward Josh Schache will be a test to face Fremantle this weekend after suffering a concussion during Sunday’s clash with St Kilda.

Schache sustained the injury going back with the flight to spoil in the Bulldogs’ defensive 50.

“Josh suffered a concussion in the third quarter and was ruled out of the game by our doctors,” Western Bulldogs medical services manager, Chris Bell, said.

“Josh will follow our normal concussion process this week, and once we’re 100 per cent confident that he’s passed all of his tests, we’ll determine his availability.”

Meanwhile, Ed Richards could return to football this week after missing Sunday’s match with hamstring tightness and draftee Laitham Vandermeer is a test after suffering some tightness in his calf.

“Both players are high speed athletes and we didn’t want to take any risks going into the weekend’s game,” Bell said.

“Laitham and Ed were rested, and we will assess them over the next few days to determine their availability.”

Footscray has a bye this week, with Ben Cavarra and Lukas Webb on target to return for the Bulldogs’ VFL fixture.

“Ben – who had a minor shoulder complaint – and Lukas – who had a syndesmosis and fibula fracture – have been progressing really well over the last couple of weeks,” Bell said.

“With the VFL bye this weekend, both players will look to build continuity in their training, and be looking to come back into the team the week following.”

* Injury list updated on Monday 22 July, 2019