WEST Coast will offer a look into the future of its forward line when it tackles Essendon on Tuesday night at the Gabba.
Coach Adam Simpson confirmed on Monday afternoon key forward Josh Kennedy would miss despite clearing concussion tests following a heavy hit in Thursday night's loss to Richmond.
He will become the fifth member from the Eagles' 2018 premiership attack to sit out with Willie Rioli (ASADA ban), Daniel Venables (concussion), Jamie Cripps (personal) sidelined and Mark LeCras retired.
Second-gamer Bailey Williams is poised to keep his spot and split his time between attack and supporting Nic Naitanui, while Oscar Allen is likely to return from a corked hip.
It will leave Jack Darling, who last week kicked his 400th goal, to lead the forward set-up.
"It'll be a glimpse of the future," Simpson said.
"As much as we love Josh (Kennedy) and want him to play forever, when the time comes hopefully we've got some players that can step in and fill the void, albeit it will be a huge one to fill.
"We like getting some kids in our side and hopefully we can still win while we do that."
Jack Redden (adductor) and Jackson Nelson (shoulder) are also in line to return, while Lewis Jetta is in the selection mix for his first game since being dropped ahead of round five.
However, forward options Jake Waterman (hand), Jack Petrucelle and Jamaine Jones (hamstrings) remain out of contention through injury.
THE FULL INJURY LIST Who is racing the clock?
Midfield star Elliot Yeo is hopeful of ramping up his running this week as he attempts to return from a groin injury ahead of finals.
Teams for Tuesday night's clash will be confirmed at 6.20pm AEST on Monday evening with star Bomber Joe Daniher a chance to miss off the five-day break and skipper Dyson Heppell (ankle) in the conversation to play.
