The selection battle for the upcoming clash against Gold Coast looms as the most intriguing so far.

With the last three Syd Barker Medalists all on the sidelines for the stirring win against Fremantle, there is serious talent waiting to come back in.

However there are also a host of players in strong form for Werribee and North Ballarat.

Have your say on any potential changes in the comments below.

#4: Liam Anthony

The reason: After being named as an emergency for the clash against Fremantle, Anthony is clearly in the mind of the match committee. He did his chances of a call-up no harm with 33 possessions for North Ballarat against Geelong.

The challenge: In what will become a common theme for this week, Anthony is in the tricky situation of being in good form but with no apparent spots available to claim.

#5: Ben Jacobs

The reason: After a tough weekend of travel, Jacobs ran out onto Simonds Stadium and was one of the best players on the ground, amassing 33 disposals for North Ballarat. Playing both inside and outside, he appears ready for a recall to the senior side.

The challenge: If Daniel Wells and Andrew Swallow are ready to return, it could be hard for Jacobs to find a way into the senior side ahead of the two leaders.

#8: Daniel Wells

The reason: After being stomped on at training in the lead up to the Collingwood game, Wells pulled up sore after the match. However if the soreness has subsided, Wells would be an automatic inclusion.

The challenge: With the bye coming up in Round 8, there is extra incentive to keep Wells out for one more week if he is not at 100 per cent. It would allow the number 8 almost a month between games, enough time to be cherry ripe to attack the middle section of the season.

#9: Andrew Swallow

The reason: In the captain’s first game for nine months, he collected 23 disposals and five tackles in three quarters for North Ballarat. He was impressive and showed no signs of any physical slippage from his Achilles injury.

The challenge: By his own admission, Swallow struggled to run the game out. Another game, with increased field time, could have him ready to return after the bye.

#16: Scott Thompson

The reason: The reigning All-Australian full-back, Thompson is ready to return after missing the Fremantle win due to striking Travis Cloke.

The challenge: While it’s unlikely Thompson will be forced to earn his spot back through the VFL, the incumbents in the senior backline were all impressive in holding Fremantle to just four goals after quarter time.

#19: Sam Wright

The reason: After not playing any footy due to being named as an emergency against Collingwood, Wright rebounded with a strong performance for Werribee last weekend. 27 disposals and 10 marks had the utility named in the bests after the Tigers’ 103-point victory.

The challenge: The defensive side of North’s game is tracking along nicely, conceding only 74 points per game. All Wright has to do is continue his good form and wait for a spot to open up.

#32: Mason Wood

The reason: Nine goals in two weeks have Wood in a rich vein of form for Werribee.  Also taking marks inside 50 for the Tigers, the left-footer’s game is progressing nicely in his second year at Arden Street.

The challenge: The addition of Majak Daw into the senior side gave the forward line a boost against the Dockers. The trio of Daw, Drew Petrie and Aaron Black look to have a hold on the key forward positions for the time being.

#42: Scott McMahon

The reason: Alongside Wright, McMahon was a general down back for Werribee in its heavy win. Development Manager Gavin Brown complemented the veteran on his ability to organise a defensive group.

“His voice is really noticeable, he points, he sets everyone up with his leadership and experience.”

The challenge: Much like Wright, McMahon is in the spot of waiting for a vacancy in the senior side to open up. While it isn’t the ideal individual situation, it’s an enviable position for the football club to be in.

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