MELBOURNE co-captain Nathan Jones has hit back at criticism of his form, saying people are missing the bigger picture.

With the injury-hit Dees languishing in 16th spot on the ladder with a 3-7 win-loss record, the spotlight has been turned on a number of players, including Jones.

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Jones is averaging 20.6 disposals a game this season, down from 24.6 last year and 27.4 in 2017. 

He had just 12 touches in the thumping loss to Greater Western Sydney but did spend time on the bench after a head knock.

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"I've been playing a lot of different roles, I think that's the point that's been missed," Jones said in Darwin ahead of Melbourne's clash with Adelaide. 

"I've spent time at half-back, time on the wing, time inside. I think a lot of the time, the criticism comes from judging statistics, but I think you have to look deeper than that. 

"Personally, it doesn't really bother me. I listen to the coaching group and the people around me who are important and know the role and position I'm playing for the team. Ultimately, that's all that really matters to me."

The Demons will be boosted by the return of Christian Salem (concussion), Michael Hibberd (collarbone) and Mitch Hannan (knee).

"We made a few changes this week, and particularly our defence has shored up with 'Salo' and 'Hibbo' back, and Mitchy Hannan as well, I think he adds another dimension to our forward line and a really important one to create the right mix down there," Jones said.

"Over the next couple of weeks, hopefully we'll see Stevie May, Jake Lever and there's a handful of other guys on the mend who will hopefully bolster our list and the health of our group.

"If we can couple that with finding some consistent form, I think we should be in a pretty good position."