After missing the trip to Geelong, Cam Zurhaar is a chance to return to North Melbourne's line-up for Sunday's game against Hawthorn at Marvel Stadium.

Scans revealed a low-level calf strain for the forward early last week, so he'll have to prove his fitness during training to be available for Thursday's selection.

08:08

Milestone man Larkey reflects on his career so far

Nick Larkey speaks to reporters ahead of his 100th game on Sunday at Marvel Stadium

Fellow forward Jaidyn Stephenson, who was omitted from the AFL side following Round 4's loss to Brisbane at Norwood Oval, kicked two goals from 15 touches in North Melbourne's VFL win over Brisbane on Sunday.

The performance puts him in the frame for a call-up, while Curtis Taylor could also be considered as a forward option, after also kicking two goals in the one-point win at Arden Street.

15:01

VFL R3 match highlights: North Melbourne v Brisbane

The Kangaroos and Lions clash in Round 3

Onballer Will Phillips is knocking on the door after a solid defensive display in the reserves.

He laid a game-high 13 tackles against the Lions to go along with 21 disposals and is a chance to be elevated if senior coach Alastair Clarkson and the match committee look to shuffle the midfield.

Brayden George continues to string strong performances together off half-back in the VFL, as does draftee Riley Hardeman, who showed plenty of run-and-carry on Sunday.

Jackson Archer, despite not seeing much of the ball himself against the Lions, had a big influence in defensive 50 and is a potential lockdown option for Clarkson's backline.

Miller Bergman is on track to return from a fractured jaw but faces a test later this week. He could make his comeback via the VFL if fit, as could Liam Shiels unless the veteran fails to overcome his calf complaint.