ADAM Simpson is confident star West Coast forward Jack Darling will overcome concussion in time to face danger side Brisbane at the Gabba.
However, the Eagles' leading goalkicker still needs to pass a cognitive state test before boarding the plane on Friday.
The Eagles have been sweating on Darling's recovery all week after his head hit the ground in an Oscar McDonald tackle during last Sunday's loss to Melbourne.
With spearhead Josh Kennedy already ruled out for a fifth-straight game, Darling's availability could be crucial for West Coast's bid to lock away second spot on the ladder.
"He trained (today) and he looked pretty symptom-free, but until we get the test done … but I'll think he play," Simpson said.
"He's just got to tick the final box.
"I'm pretty sure he's going to play, so I haven't got a contingency worked out yet.
"The make-up of our side will change slightly but not too much."
Versatile defender Will Schofield is also in the mix after missing two games with a hamstring strain, with Simpson disappointed how West Coast's backline handled the Demons' attacking threat.
Melbourne scored 108 points at Optus Stadium, becoming the first side in 19 games to top more than 88 points against the Eagles.
"That's a great problem to have quality players like Schofield come back and be available," Simpson said.
"Having a pretty consistent backline is really important for us. Didn't have the greatest of weekends last week, but they've been pretty good for us."
The Eagles will know from the opening bounce on Sunday if they need to win to secure second spot, with fellow top-two hopefuls Collingwood and Hawthorn playing on Saturday.
Overcoming the Lions at the Gabba looks a tricky proposition, despite Brisbane only winning two home games.
Brisbane's average losing margin in eight defeats on its home turf is just 14 points and the past two games have been decided by less than a kick.
Simpson said the Eagles were still experimenting with their most dangerous attacking setup without Kennedy, but securing the four points was the No.1 priority.
"If we try anything it will be out of necessity, not flirting with our form," he said.
"We understand what Brisbane can present, especially at home, and what we need to do to get a win.
"It's really important we go full bore this week."
Slow starts have crept into the Eagles' game in recent weeks, and Simpson is wary of giving the Lions a sniff.
The Eagles had to play catch-up football in an after-the-siren epic against Port Adelaide – which led by 24 points at the first change – and against Melbourne (10 points).
"It's probably not the full quarter, it's just the first 10 minutes in particular we've been jumped," Simpson said.
"And Brisbane start well, so that's a great challenge for us to get that on our terms.
"It's going to be difficult, but we're aware of it."
