CARLTON defender Michael Jamison will need to improve his effort and consistency to work his way back into the Blues' team, according to coach Brendon Bolton.

The 29-year-old, who was a member of the Blues' leadership group from 2014-2015, has been dropped for Saturday night's clash against the Western Bulldogs.

Carlton has instead opted for versatility in defence, bringing in recruit Lachie Plowman, who Bolton said could play small or tall against an undersized Bulldogs' forward line.  

The coach said there was no doubt Jamison would fight his way back into the team, but his effort was reflective of the 17th-placed Blues' 0-3 start to the year.

"'Jamo' is trying to work really hard on improving his game … only this week he did a lot of video analysis of one-v-one, so he's in a really good mindset," Bolton said.

"[His form] is a little bit indicative of our team of late, giving effort a little bit inconsistent.

"We're changing our mix down back this week, so there's that layer and there's the layer of some inconsistencies.

"What I do know is 'Jamo' is working really hard to improve … he'll fight back, there's no doubt about that."

As well as Plowman, the Blues have selected fellow Greater Western Sydney recruit Liam Sumner.

The 179cm Sumner modelled his game on now teammate Dale Thomas and will likely play as a speedy half-forward, while Plowman shapes as a third tall defender.  

Bolton said there had been no rush to select the pair, who arrived at Ikon Park as part of the trade that sent Troy Menzel to Adelaide.

That deal also netted the Blues midfielder Sam Kerridge, small forward Jed Lamb and ruckman Andrew Phillips, who will all be playing on Saturday night. 

"I think it's always a really measured approach to those decisions," Bolton said of selecting the pair.

"We don't want to bring in people who aren't playing with form … they need to earn a spot and Plowman no doubt does that."

Bolton said the hamstring injury that forced midfielder Blaine Boekhorst out of this week's team was expected to sideline the 22-year-old for two to three weeks.