VITAL Fremantle defender Alex Pearce has eased concerns over his fitness for Sunday's huge Western Derby, declaring he will be ready to go for a looming shutdown job on Josh Kennedy.
Pearce ran laps at training on Wednesday, raising some questions about his availability, but said a managed workload is common practice after his long rehabilitation from complications with his broken leg.
The 22-year-old told AFL.com.au he'll be putting his hand up for a mouthwatering match-up on West Coast's dual Coleman medallist Kennedy.
MATCH PREVIEW: New stadium's first derby should be a cracker
"The team hasn't been picked yet, but I'm pretty sure I'll be playing," Pearce said.
"It's pretty standard for me to get managed through the week and look after my body.
"Yesterday was pretty normal, I did some running and got through what I needed to just preparing for tomorrow's training session."
Dockers coach Ross Lyon has previously stated Pearce will need to be managed for some time after nearly two years on the sidelines.
The 200cm tall isn't in a rush but was confident he would eventually build back up to a normal workload.
"I think I'll be right. After being out for so long it takes a while to get the body back to the grind of AFL football and preparing each week," Pearce said.
"I've noticed the last couple of weeks I've pulled up better and better.
"Hopefully I get back and do some more training, but it's not essential."
Lyon has raised the possibility that Pearce could be thrust forward to help replace Matt Taberner (fractured metatarsal) this Sunday.
The star backman is open to any role, but is preparing for the job on Kennedy with stints potentially pinch-hitting in the ruck.
Sunday's historic first derby at Optus Stadium is almost sold out, and will be Pearce's first taste of the crosstown rivalry since round three, 2016.
"It was a little while ago. It's good fun, it's a high-intensity game, the crowd's big and loud," he said.
"It's something I've looked forward to for a long time, getting back and playing in it."
