Defender Jeremy McGovern set to overcome corked calf, says coach
WEST Coast coach Adam Simpson is confident star defender Jeremy McGovern will be fit to play in Saturday night's clash with Gold Coast in Perth.
McGovern looked proppy at times after copping a knock to his calf in Sunday's 10-point win over Port Adelaide.
The 23-year-old, who battled bruising on his knee earlier this season, has played a key role in West Coast's surge into second spot, helping cover for the loss of both Eric Mackenzie and Mitch Brown.
Simpson said he wasn't worried at all about McGovern's latest knock.
"He's always proppy. Every week there seems to be a niggle, and every week he seems to come up," Simpson told Perth radio station 6PR.
"We've had a couple of big concerns with Gov throughout the first three or four games that have put him in doubt.
"But this one is just a corky in his calf, and I think he'll come up no worries."
Wingman Matt Rosa will push for a recall this week after overcoming a tight back, but he may struggle to squeeze back into a squad that has won three straight games.
Simpson rated the win over Port Adelaide as the best he's experienced during his time at the Eagles, but said the challenge now was to back it up.
"The ultimate test for us is can we continue to provide that consistency," Simpson said.
"We're building and working towards a brand of footy that can stand up in games like we had on the weekend.
"The players understand that type of brand is something we can be proud of.
"The boys now realise we're capable of it. Now it's about being consistent at it."
The Suns are struggling in 16th spot on the table with a 1-5 record, but the return of Harley Bennell, Brandon Matera and Trent McKenzie from club-imposed suspensions will be a timely boost.
Gold Coast almost beat the Eagles in Perth last year, and Simpson said the Suns' lowly position on the ladder didn't reflect the team's potential.
"Not for one second are we going to take this game lightly," Simpson said.
"They've steadily improved over the past month or so."