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Josh Kennedy is in doubt to face North
WEST Coast's hopes of raiding North Melbourne in Hobart could be dealt A sizeable blow with spearhead Josh Kennedy battling soreness.
The dual Coleman medalist returned from a hairline fracture in his leg against Collingwood.
Kennedy looks in serious doubt for the long-haul trip to Tasmania and will miss the Eagles
PREVIEW MATCH Kangaroos v Eagles
"We'll see how he's a bit sore, just in general, "coach Adam Simpson said.
" We'll get a bit more specific in the next 24 hours, goal just getting through a week-to-week with his body at a challenge of late. "
West Coast, which has already lost Lewis Jetta to a minor calf niggle, could recall young forward Jake Waterman for the clash with the Roos, who have won 12 of their past 14 at Blundstone Arena. 19659004] "We've been really impressed (with Waterman)," he said.
"When you've gotten Kennedy and (Jack) Darling in the side, I think it's a lot easier."
"He had to carry the load for the couple. . He's definitely in contention if Josh does not come up. "
Key defender Tom Barrbad looms as another possible inclusion to fight Coleman Medal leader Ben Brown.
Simpson also backed Dom Sheed to find out after struggling in an unfamiliar half -forward role and only picking up 10 keys in his return against the Bulldogs
"With players, you do not like them playing for their spot. Quite often, other issues creep into their head, "Simpson said.
" So we just want to play this role that we've got for him. It may be a different role for this weekend, it might be the same.
"But he'll play, and we'll go back to him in this week."
The Eagles have been involved in two thrillers against North in Hobart for a win and a loss (19659004) There is plenty of riding on the battlefield for both sides, with 10th-place North battling for a finals berth
If the Eagles win they could jump a game clear on top of the ladder or win two wins in the top-two, depending on the result of Richmond's blockbuster against Collingwood.
Meanwhile, Simpson confirmed midfield coach Sam Mitchell is working with some family issues and will leave the club at the end of the year.
COACH FOR HIRE Mitchell heading home to Vic
Mitchell is in the second season of the bombshell four-year playing and coaching deal he signed to cross fro Hawthorn at the end of 2016.
"What's really important for this year, and this week," Simpson said.
"That won ' "
Simpson also said star ruckman Nic Naitanui's knee reconstruction was a success and the Eagles are planning on a standard recovery timeframe of about 12 months.
" Hopefully at some stage next year we get back, Simpson said.
"He is going to be relentless with his recovery."
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