ADAM Simpson has laughed-off talk Sunday's showdown with Richmond could be a Grand Final preview, and insists West Coast isn't distracted by the "white noise" from those pumping up the Eagles' flag chances.
The winner of the top-of-the-table clash at Optus Stadium will move a game clear in first spot on the ladder, a position nobody expected the Eagles to be fighting for after an off-season overhaul of an ageing list.
Although Simpson is keen for his side to test themselves against the reigning premier, he isn't getting caught up in talk of contending come September.
"That's absolutely ridiculous to talk about Grand Finals in round nine," Simpson said.
"Where we've come from and where we're at, I find that laughable.
"The way we ride the rollercoaster, in particular in Perth, we were bottom of the ladder at the start of the season, now we're talking about a premiership game.
"It's white noise and it's got absolutely nothing to do with what we're doing."
The Eagles will welcome back star ruckman Nic Naitanui from suspension and Jeremy McGovern (calf), with Dom Sheed (foot) and Lewis Jetta (calf) also likely inclusions to the side which has won seven-straight.
Richmond's imposing big man Toby Nankervis (wrist) is in doubt, but Simpson said the Tigers' uncertain ruck setup wouldn't impact his planning.
Simpson played his cards close to his chest when quizzed if the Eagles would tag Dustin Martin.
The Tigers superstar was held to just 16 touches by North Melbourne's lock-down midfielder Ben Jacobs and the Kangaroos almost pulled off a huge upset.
"We're really mindful that Richmond are a collective so knocking off one player doesn't guarantee results, in fact the evidence is there (discounting that)," Simpson said.
"We need to keep that in mind. I think they're more than just Dustin Martin."
Speaking earlier on Friday, Richmond coach Damien Hardwick called on umpires to protect Martin, believing ball players deserve "a fair go".
Simpson didn't disagree with Hardwick, but pointed out Martin isn't the only key ball-winner who cops heat from taggers.
"That's his comments. He might need protection, I'm not sure. Andrew Gaff might need protection as well," Simpson said.
Meanwhile, the Eagles coach was unfazed after a report emerged on Friday naming five Melbourne clubs keen to lure Gaff back to Victoria.
The prolific wingman has been in sparkling touch, averaging 30 disposals, and is due to become a restricted free agent alongside McGovern and in-form big man Scott Lycett.
"We won't have anyone left soon if 'Gov' leaves and 'Gaffy' leaves," Simpson joked.
"I think it's (speculation) just a sign that they're restricted free agents, they're out of contract and they're really good players.
"We're doing everything we can to keep all of our players."
Importantly for West Coast, the speculation hasn't negatively impacted any of the key Eagles trio's form.
"The players are a bit more mature about it, the clubs are as well and so are the managers," Simpson said.
"It's not a distraction at the moment for us."
