Scans have cleared Koby Stevens of any serious damage to his ribs after enduring a heavy hit during the Richmond clash on Saturday, according to Western Bulldogs Medical Services Manager Andrew McKenzie.

Yesterday an x-ray confirmed the 21-year-old has suffered a bruised rib which will be monitored by Bulldogs medical staff during the week.

“We had the usual bumps and bruises and some soreness - Koby Stevens had a bruised rib, [he] had an x-ray and was cleared… which was a good sign and we will see how he feels over the coming week,” McKenzie said.

Another player poised to make his return is Shaun Higgins, who will be looking to gain minutes in Williamstown’s VFL intraclub this week to regain match fitness ahead of round one.

“Higgo is progressing really well with his training hopefully he will play some time in the VFL intraclub this week so really positive with him,” he said.

Tom Williams is also progressing well in his rehabilitation program and will be looking to region the main playing group in the coming weeks.

“Tom is progressing quite well, he is building up in his rehab program - he is doing more running and some football work,” he said.

“He is not quite with the group yet but we will build him into that hopefully in the coming weeks.”