THE WESTERN Bulldogs have finally received some good news on the injury front with ruckman Tom Campbell available for Friday night's opening round clash against Collingwood at the MCG.

The 25-year-old rolled his ankle in an intra-club hit-out on February 24, and his return is timely considering No.1 big man Jordan Roughead is sidelined with a hamstring complaint and draftee ruckman Tim English is battling shin soreness.

While he's been passed fit, there must be some doubt over Campbell's match fitness after a month on the sidelines.

Bulldogs medical services manager Chris Bell told the club's website the former rookie is cleared to face the Magpies.

"Tom's completed the final stages of his rehabilitation following his ankle injury," Bell said.

"He's resumed full training and will be available this week."

As expected, veteran Matthew Boyd won't let a nasty ear injury stop him from running out for the start of the Dogs' premiership defence.

The 34-year-old will wear a helmet to protect the severe laceration he received against Gold Coast in the JLT Community Series.