Hawthorn says Luke Hodge won’t play on Friday night, despite the fact a top four spot is up for grabs.

The reigning premiers declaring that they are keen to hold their leader back until Round 14

“If Hodgey had his way, he’d like to play this weekend but we want to make 100 per cent sure that he’s in great shape when he does come back so he’ll do another full week of training this week,” Hawks GM Football Operations Chris Fagan told the club’s website.

Hodge was at the centre of a fiery clash with North last year when he punched Andrew Swallow. He was suspended for three weeks as a result.

“North are a terrific team, we traditionally have great battles against them so our guys have turned their minds to that game and are very much looking forward to it,” Fagan added.

“There’s a bit at stake and we’re keen to do well.”

After holding back Sam Mitchell last week, Fagan confirmed he would return along with ruckman Jonathon Ceglar and defender Taylor Duryea.

Mitchell missed with a minor back injury, Ceglar was serving a one-match suspension and Duryea had a minor hip problem.