WEST Coast midfielder Chris Masten has been ruled out of Friday night's qualifying final against Hawthorn because of a hamstring injury.

Masten suffered the injury during last week's win over St Kilda, and coach Adam Simpson said the six-day break between games meant it was too much of a risk to play the speedy midfielder. 

"If it was an eight-day break there would've been some serious questions asked," Simpson said on Thursday.

"We think he might be available next week if needed, or possibly a prelim." 

In better news for the Eagles, defender Will Schofield will return from his own hamstring injury.

Simpson would not reveal who would replace Masten or who would make way for Schofield. 

Scott Selwood, Patrick McGinnity and Kane Lucas are the three most likely options to come in for Masten.

Youngster Jackson Nelson appears the most likely to make way for Schofield.