The Western Bulldogs will be sweating on the fitness of defenders Lukas Markovic and Easton Wood ahead of Saturday’s clash against North Melbourne.

Hamstring injuries have kept the pair out in recent weeks, but both could be in line for a recall if they can prove their health this week.

At least one spot will be up for grabs in the Bulldogs’ side after Daniel Cross was ruled out for the year with a shoulder injury, though there’s sure to be further competition for spots following a convincing loss at the hands of St Kilda.

Coach Brendan McCartney stressed the importance of having faith in his team after the 76-point defeat, the club’s sixth in a row.

Back in Round 7, the Kangaroos were outmuscled by the likes of Ryan Griffen and Matthew Boyd, but are set to field a vastly different line-up this time around.