The Saints are weighing up several possible inclusions ahead of the trip to Townsville to take on the Suns.
After a week off to refresh, review and reignite, Alan Richardson’s men will be desperate to bounce back and gear towards to strong second half of the season.
The Saints were decimated by illness on the eve of the Round 11 clash against the Power in Shanghai, but could be reinforced with a host of players pushing for selection this week.
Blake Acres, Daniel McKenzie and Jonathon Marsh have all recovered well and trained strongly in Sunday’s first session back from the break.
Acres’ versatility was sorely missed in China, while McKenzie looms as the most likely replacement for injured skipper Jarryn Geary.
Jimmy Webster is also inching closer to a return after successful surgery to remove an existing metal plate in his right hand.
The rebounding defender was one of the Saints’ best in 2018, and given Geary’s absence, his leadership will be more important than ever when he does return.
Brandon White is another in line for a recall, with his superb form in the VFL yet to be rewarded this season.
White has averaged 22 disposals and six marks per game; his elite kicking and quarterback-like role often the foundation for Sandringham’s assaults forward.
The defender wasn’t flown to China as cover to ensure he didn’t run the risk of going three consecutive weeks without any football after being the carry-over emergency in Round 10.
Nick Hind and Hunter Clark have also performed strongly for the Zebras in recent weeks, while Ben Paton could earn another recall after fully recovering from a minor medial strain.
Hind and Paton were rushed to Shanghai the day before the game as several Saints fell ill, but their services ultimately weren’t required.
Sydney premiership star Dan Hannebery enjoyed a successful return to football in the VFL and could be joined by Jake Carlisle in the red, white and black in the coming weeks.
Hannebery’s game-time will be lifted this week as he pushes for a long-awaited debut for the Saints.
Meanwhile, Max King continues to build his game nicely, kicking 10 goals from his past four outings.
King would add a marking option up forward and only time stands between him and an AFL call-up.
The Saints will do battle against the Suns at 1:45 this Saturday, 15 June at Riverway Stadium.