Farmer has been struggling for consistency this season and has kicked just four goals in his past five games, but it is his away form that has caused the greatest concern for Connolly.
"I've spoken to Jeff that his away form has been poor this year and he's aware of it and he's keen to rectify that," Connolly said.
"Just his form in all areas has been poor or poorer away. He's played some good football here (at Subiaco Oval) but away from home he's had a poor season. We need our better players playing well."
However, Connolly backed the 29-year-old to bounce back to his best, especially at the MCG where Farmer has enjoyed some memorable moments over the years.
"He's played a lot of football at the MCG and he's a class player," Connolly said.
"Jeff Farmer certainly attracts the best or second best defender, so that's an advantage. If Jeff's in the team that would certainly be beneficial to us."
Josh Carr will be given up until the final minute to prove his fitness after scans earlier in the week revealed that a blood clot in his calf was clearing.
Luke McPharlin is another close to full fitness but must prove he has overcome a niggling ankle injury he sustained four weeks ago, and Connolly said if the 24-year-old did play, he would toy with the idea of sending him either forward or back.
"We've discussed both and we have the option to do both and we have the option to do both within the game, so that gives us some flexibility," Connolly said.
