WESTERN Bulldogs key defender Zaine Cordy has been ruled out of Sunday's clash against Carlton after specialists confirmed a minor fracture to his frontal sinus.

While Cordy will be a big loss to a side looking for a third win on the trot, the Dogs expect to regain captain Easton Wood from his latest hamstring issue.

Cordy was taken to hospital following a second-quarter collision with Ben Brown, after the boot of Kangaroo forward struck the 21-year-old in his forehead.

Club medical services manager Chris Bell told westernbulldogs.com.au Cordy wouldn't be risked against the Blues.

"We've consulted with a specialist today and we will manage Zaine conservatively," Bell said.

"He won't play this week, but we'll work with a specialist to determine his availability for next week.”

While Cordy likely miss the remainder of the season, Wood is a like-for-like replacement with is ability to play tall or small.

The 28-year-old hasn't played since he badly injured his hamstring in the round 13 loss to Port Adelaide.

"Easton has been fantastic in his recovery following his high-grade hamstring injury," Bell said.

"He really has left no stone unturned in trying to get back this season.

"He completed our final measures on the weekend in terms of his training loads and he'll come back into full training this week.

"If he gets through full training as we expect, he'll be available this weekend."

Defender Roarke Smith, who sustained a concussion in the round 20 win over St Kilda, could also be available for selection after missing last week.

The Dogs are yet to update the status of key defender Marcus Adams (shoulder), utility Bailey Williams (foot) and key forward Tom Boyd (back), but the important trio are unlikely to pay again this season.