MATT Suckling is expecting plenty of banter when the Western Bulldogs renew acquaintances with Jake Stringer for the first time since his bitter exit from Whitten Oval. 

After starting the season in disastrous fashion with beltings at the hands of Greater Western Sydney and West Coast, Sunday's clash against Essendon at Etihad Stadium will have several interesting subplots for the faltering Dogs.

While he was sent packing to the Bombers for a number of reasons, Stringer still has plenty of friends in red, white and blue, and Suckling is expecting his good mate to be rattling off the verbal barbs. 

"He's a funny man and we went to America at the end of last year, so I'm sure he'll have something smart to say on the weekend," Suckling said on Thursday. 

"I'm probably not the right guy to (be) lipping at him because I'm not the (biggest sledger), so I'll leave that, but it's just a bit of fun.

"I look forward to a bit of banter." 

With Jackson Trengove unavailable due to a shoulder injury and Jordan Roughead in doubt with concussion, it remains to be seen if versatile big man Tom Boyd is recalled from the VFL to play his first senior game since round 13 last season.

While Boyd hasn't been in great form in several practice matches with Footscray, Suckling says the premiership hero is in a good headspace after taking time away from the game last year to deal with mental health issues. 

"He's doing really well and it's great to see him around the club after going through a lot last year and taking time off," Suckling said. 

"He's in good spirits and training well."