WEST Coast's history at the MCG is exactly that for coach Adam Simpson – history.

The third-placed Eagles head east for Sunday's blockbuster against second-placed Collingwood as underdogs, largely due to their much-discussed record at the home of football.

West Coast hasn't beaten the Pies on their home turf in 10 attempts stretching back to 1995 and has only two wins – both against lowly Carlton – from the past seven trips to the 'G.

While some pundits are waiting to see how the Eagles perform at the Grand Final venue against quality opposition before backing them as a genuine premiership threat, Simpson is equally keen to see his troops in a massive road clash so close to finals.

"Just to get over there and have another game on the road – we've had a mixed bag this year, I think we've won four and lost two on the road – just to have a good crack at a quality side is really exciting," he said.

"It's our second and last game (at the MCG this year).

"We'll get those questions every time until probably we win a flag I reckon, about playing at the MCG.

"I understand the criticism that pops up every now and then. We haven't beaten Collingwood for a long period of time – I think someone said that about Hawthorn earlier in the year as well – but that's just reality.

"We don't really think about the history.

The Eagles have received a huge boost for the heavyweight bout, with leading goalkickers Josh Kennedy (leg), Jack Darling (ankle) and Mark LeCras (wrist) returning from lay-offs.

Simpson was confident that trio are "as fit as they've ever been", but regaining their touch and match conditioning could take some time.

"The three of them being back at once, we're aware of that and how we manage it is going to be a challenge," he said.
"I dare say they won't be at full capacity with output, but it's more than just them personally, it probably just straightens us up.

"It allows (Jeremy) McGovern to go back and have a bit more of a traditional forward line for us.

"(LeCras) is just at a level where it's not going to get any better or worse, so we'll play him and he wants to play.

"Another week wouldn't make any difference, is the advice we got."

Simpson declared star ruckman Nic Naitanui was ready to go for the pivotal contest with All Australian contender Brodie Grundy after battling soreness last week.

The Eagles coach also hinted midfielder Dom Sheed would miss out for a fourth straight game, despite racking up 34 touches for East Perth last Saturday.

"Dom's form's been pretty good. He's got to maintain that and look for another opportunity to get in the side," Simpson said.

"That's a good problem for us, to have a bit of depth with our mids."

Sheed could line up again at East Perth alongside small forward Liam Ryan, who is not available for senior selection after his recent car crash, and full-back Tom Barrass (back), who will play his first game since round 11.