GEELONG forward Daniel Menzel is in doubt for Friday night's preliminary final against the Sydney Swans due to a minor adductor issue.

AFL.com.au understands the 25-year-old struggled at training on Wednesday after battling soreness during the qualifying final against Hawthorn.

His most likely replacement is Lachie Henderson, who has recovered from a knee problem that required surgery after round 22.

Henderson could play up forward despite spending most of the season in defence.

The Cats were facing a tough choice as to who they might leave out for Henderson, who is likely to finish top five in the club best and fairest this year.

Given his injury history, it would be a devastating blow to Menzel, who played his first final for five seasons after undergoing four knee reconstructions between 2011 and 2016.

Menzel has played 18 games this season but missed round 21 and 22 due to injury after managing just five disposals against Essendon in round 20.

He was not at his brilliant best against Hawthorn but kicked a vital goal in the third quarter after taking a courageous mark.

The Cats will have toyed with the idea of bringing in Nakia Cockatoo, who has speed and provides an X-factor, but he has played just two VFL games in seven weeks.

Geelong first-year player Tom Ruggles will also be in a battle for a spot against Jed Bews.

Bews could be a good match-up for Sydney Swans small forward Tom Papley, who kicked four goals against Adelaide last Saturday, although Ruggles has played 18 games this season.

Despite speculation, triple premiership veteran Jimmy Bartel is expected to play.