The Western Bulldogs could welcome back a host of important players for this week’s crunch game against Melbourne.

Josh Bruce and Laitham Vandermeer (both managed) are set to be available for selection, with Jason Johannisen, Hayden Crozier and Matt Suckling also in the frame to return.

All five completed running and light skills training on the Gold Coast today.

Johannisen missed last week’s win against the Adelaide Crows after picking up an ankle injury mid-week at training.

“He couldn’t get himself up for the game on the weekend but has improved considerably over the last couple of days,” medical services manager, Chris Bell, said.

“He’s re-integrating back into full training and we expect him to be available for this weekend’s clash.”

Crozier has missed the past two weeks with a toe injury, while Suckling has been sidelined for the past three games with a hamstring.

“Both Hayden and Matt have made fantastic improvements over the last couple of weeks,” Bell said.

“Both are re-integrating back into full training. They still have to tick some boxes, but will make a strong case for selection this weekend.”

After a minor ankle injury late in Sunday’s game, ruckman Tim English remains in the frame to face the Dees.

“Tim’s doing everything he can to improve the swelling and normalise his ankle strength and function,” Bell said.

“We’re going to leave out decision on Tim’s availability until the back-end of the week.”

Injury list

Josh Bruce (managed) – available
Hayden Crozier (toe) – test
Tim English (ankle) – test
Jason Johannisen (ankle) – test
Matt Suckling (hamstring) – test
Laitham Vandermeer (managed) – test
Taylor Duryea (quad) – 1-2 weeks
Zaine Cordy (chest) – 2-3 weeks
Lin Jong (ankle) – 2-3 weeks