Nothing to lose.

That's the message the Saints will be taking into Sunday, knowing that a win (and a big win at that) and other results falling their way will lead to a spot in September finals action.

It's a challenging task considering the Saints will be taking on the second-placed Swans, who will be looking to lock in a home qualifying final.

But stranger things have happened, and with the possible return of two experienced players on the cards, the Saints will be looking to come out firing and defy the odds.

Josh Battle

It's been a breakout season for Josh Battle, who after years as a swingman has found his niche as an intercepting defender.

Tasked with the role at the beginning of the year, the 23-year-old has nailed down his spot, forming an impressive defensive partnership alongside Dougal Howard, Callum Wilkie and Jimmy Webster.

It was a role the Saints missed on Friday night, with Battle forced out of the side due to a corked thigh.

Sitting second in intercept marks for the club this year and third for spoils, Battle's role was one the Saints missed on Friday night, with the No. 26 forced out of the side due to a corked thigh.

With the Swans boasting a formidable forward line and Jimmy Webster being ruled out this week with injury, St Kilda will have its fingers crossed that Battle will be available for selection.

Dan Hannebery

As one of the most experienced members of the St Kilda squad, Dan Hannebery will be chomping at the bit to return to the senior side this weekend.

With the Saints set to miss Brad Crouch due to suspension, the former Swan is firming as the replacement.

After a lengthy stint with injury, the 2012 premiership player returned to the side last month against the Hawks, reminding the footy world of his class with 27 disposals, five clearances and a goal.

Despite being sidelined against the Lions, Hannebery is working to prove his fitness for Sunday and help his side overcome a premiership contender.

Jack Bytel

It's been just over a month since Jack Bytel returned to the VFL from a calf injury, and the 22-year-old is certainly making up for lost time.

Over his past four games for the Zebras, Bytel is averaging 26 disposals, seven tackles and seven clearances, but it was his last outing that turned heads.

Taking on the second-placed Lions down at Sandringham, the third-year Saint dominated through the middle as he snared 29 disposals, 14 clearances and 11 tackles in a bull-like performance.

With the Saints set to assess which options they have to replace Crouch, the inside-midfield presence of Bytel may be what the red, white and black are after, and would be just reward for the mountain of work the No. 23 has put in.

In contention

Zak Jones will be keen to build on his solid return to the senior side this week, coming on as the medical sub for Webster.

The 28-year-old was impressive with 17 disposals and three tackles as he attacked the footy with force in the middle of Marvel Stadium.

Similar to Hannebery, Jones will be hoping to line up in the starting 22 against his former side where he played 89 games.

Meanwhile, Tom Highmore will be pushing to pass a fitness test this week as he looks to break back into the senior side.

The high-flying defender injured his hand last week against Geelong and will be hoping to prove that he is fit to take on the Swans.

However, time has run out for Jack Billings (back), Dan McKenzie (calf) and Paddy Ryder (calf) to return, with all three still combatting injuries sustained throughout the year.