WEST Coast spearhead Josh Kennedy is pushing to return from a calf injury in time to face Geelong on Thursday week.

The dual Coleman medallist was sorely missed in the Eagles' third-straight loss – a three-point defeat to Gold Coast on Saturday - after hurting his calf in the final quarter against Greater Western Sydney 10 days ago. 

But Kennedy could boost West Coast by returning against the Cats, who will be without their burly full-forward Tom Hawkins due to suspension. 

Eagles ruckman Scott Lycett could also come under consideration following his successful WAFL return from shoulder surgery on Monday, while defender Sharrod Wellingham should be available after an ankle issue. 

"(I'm) looking to play next week, that’s the whole plan," Kennedy told 6PR. 

"I’ll start doing a bit of training towards the end of the week and over the weekend and then we’ll push for that (Geelong game).

"Hopefully I’ll get up and be ready to go next Thursday, but if not we’ve got another 10 days after that so I should be fine after that.

"The club (is) always conservative. Players always want to play a lot earlier than the docs and physios are saying.

"Whether I play or not, I couldn’t tell you but I’m hoping to be back for Geelong."

West Coast only booted 11 goals against the Suns without Kennedy, who is the competition's equal-leading goalkicker with 34 majors. 

Jack Darling and Mark LeCras, returning from a hip complaint, both went goalless and coach Adam Simpson lamented their lack of impact post-match. 

Asked if he could understand LeCras' spot in the team being questioned after three goalless games in a row, Kennedy declared that few Eagles would feel safe in the side.

"Everyone’s on notice. Not just Mark, there’s a lot of players that are on notice," Kennedy said.

"He’s pushing towards being the best player he can be. He's had a few niggles the last couple of weeks that have set him back. 

"I have no questions on Mark in our team."

Kennedy also defended Simpson from criticism after West Coast slumped to a fourth interstate loss this year. 

"We back Simmo in 100 per cent — and that’s the whole group," the Eagles' joint vice-captain said.

"We know that things have been a bit rough the last few weeks, especially travelling away.

"It comes down to the basic intent and wanting to win and that’s something only the players can drive so that’s something we’ve been working on."