WEST Coast utility Patrick McGinnity is set to miss up to six weeks after fracturing his wrist in the WAFL on Monday.
McGinnity, who has played four matches for the Eagles this year, had 26 touches in East Perth's 48-point win over West Perth to put his name forward for a recall.
Nic Nat can take a grab after all...
However Eagles' general manager of football Craig Vozzo told the club's website on Tuesday that McGinnity had broken his wrist late in the game.
"Pat had a terrific game at East Perth yesterday but late in the game copped a knock on the wrist that has led to fracture," Vozzo said.
"So it's probably four to six weeks as he recovers, but we've avoided surgery."
The Eagles have also confirmed that youngster Simon Tunbridge has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Tunbridge suffered a serious ankle injury in the round two win over Carlton. He was ruled out for three months and the Eagles have elected to send him in for shoulder surgery as well to fix some lingering issues.
"He's also had some shoulder problems," Vozzo said.
"We've decided to take the opportunity to have the surgery done sooner rather than later but that will mean Simon is likely to miss the whole season."
In better news for West Coast, Jack Darling (foot), Dom Sheed (hand) and Mark Hutchings (back) are all set to return this week.
Sheed is the only one likely to come back into the Eagles line up to face North Melbourne on Sunday, given the form he was in before he fractured his hand. Coach Adam Simpson confirmed on Monday night that Darling would return via the WAFL.
Experienced midfielder Matt Rosa is also a chance to return this week. Rosa was rested against Greater Western Sydney in round five after he suffered back-related hamstring tightness following the round four win over the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba. He then injured his hamstring at training in the lead-up to round seven.
Vozzo said Rosa wouldn't be rushed back.
"We've adopted a cautious approach," Vozzo said.
"He'll be tested later in the week. If he gets through that he'll play but we may well be waiting another week. We're not quite sure yet."
Youngsters Murray Newman (thumb) and Damien Cavka (foot) are also available to play at East Perth this week after long lay-offs with injury.