The Western Bulldogs could look to youth ahead of Saturday night’s clash with the Crows at Etihad Stadium.

The Bulldogs are sweating on the fitness of in-form playmaker Lachie Hunter after he copped a high hit from North Melbourne’s Lindsay Thomas, while Tom Liberatore must also overcome a corked thigh.

Dogs coach Luke Beveridge has several options to replace the pair if one or both are unavailable for action this weekend.

South Australian Caleb Daniel has overcome a calf complaint and will be fit to confront the Crows.

First-year midfielder Josh Dunkley could also return for his first AFL appearance since Round Two after being named best afield for Footscray in the VFL. The 19-year-old collected 30 possessions and six clearances in his side’s 42-point loss to Werribee.

Mitch Honeychurch had 30 touches and six clearances of his own, along with 10 tackles and a goal and could come under consideration for his first AFL game of the season. Honeychurch’s last senior appearance was against Adelaide in the 2015 Elimination Final.

Lukas Webb (28 possessions, eight clearances) was also industrious in the midfield, while versatile defender Zaine Cordy also performed well if the Dogs require another option down back.

Veteran ruckman Will Minson had a match-high 32 hit-outs along with 14 disposals.