After a promising performance that ended in heartbreak against GWS, North Melbourne heads into this weekend’s clash with Brisbane full of confidence.

After the return of Robbie Tarrant last week, even more players are on the comeback trail, increasing competition for spots.

Despite the largely positive performance against the Giants, David Noble and the match committee may look to tweak the team to go one step further, to victory.

North Media looks at who is in the mix.

Reigning Syd Barker medalist Luke McDonald could make his long-awaited return this week as he looks to finish his recovery from a pec injury suffered in Round 4.

After putting the hard yards in to ensure a return to the side as quickly as possible, a return to AFL football could be a just reward for the defender.

After impressing against Essendon at VFL level, first year midfielder Will Phillips has been robbed of the chance to build his form due to the postponement of the VFL.

Renowned for his contested inside midfield ability, the number-29’s decision making and transition work in match simulation has leaped forward in recent weeks, and he could be recalled to the senior side for what will be a tough midfield battle against the Lions.

After seeing out last week's clash with GWS as the unused medical substitute, Curtis Taylor is obviously well in contention for a spot in the 22.

With Tristan Xerri’s VFL form proving too irresistible to ignore, Tom Campbell was the man to make way for the young ruck/forward, however he’s played his role well when called upon so far this season.

With 53 games under his belt, Campbell is ready and waiting if Noble wants to call on some more experience in his forward line.

Men’s football seems to be starting to click for Eddie Ford, with the young forward pushing harder every week for an AFL debut.

The young forward’s strong hands and high work ethic could transition well at AFL level, and he could provide something different against one of the league’s premier defensive outfits.

Connor Menadue and Atu Bosenavulagi are all options to return to the back six and provide some pace and athleticism out of the backline.