PROMISING forward Paddy McCartin would make a great replacement for injured star Nick Riewoldt ahead of St Kilda's clash against West Coast in Perth on Saturday, says midfielder Jack Steven.

St Kilda suffered a demoralising 30-point loss to Melbourne last Saturday. After going into quarter-time with a healthy advantage, the Saints conceded 10 straight goals to lose in a contest that had been billed as the match between two up-and-coming sides.

A tough challenge awaits the Saints, with the Eagles having won the corresponding game last year by 103 points. It will be made even harder by the absence of former skipper Riewoldt, who hyperextended his right knee in the final minutes against the Demons.

The 34-year-old is expected to miss at least two weeks, with the Saints to see how his knee responds to the swelling.

Steven spoke to reporters before the Saints had their review at Linen House Centre on Monday and said McCartin's marking prowess would help stiffen the side.

"Love Paddy in the team. He gives us good presence and a good down the line target, and he rarely gets beaten," Steven said.

The first overall selection in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft booted three goals in a VFL practice match against Port Melbourne on Sunday after being a late out against the Demons.

Veteran Leigh Montagna is another in line to return to the senior side. The 33-year-old missed all of the JLT Community Series with a right calf strain but returned for Sandringham and had 18 disposals while playing in defence and through the midfield.

Both Montagna and McCartin sat out the last quarter.

Steven said it would be on the leaders to make sure there was no repeat of the Demons game.

"We've got to really stand up and lead from the front, which we probably didn't do for three quarters on Saturday. (I'm) looking forward to getting away with the boys and having a crack at the Eagles," he said.

St Kilda was dominated by Dees midfielders Clayton Oliver and Jack Viney, among others, which left Steven frustrated.

"They flogged us in the midfield so we'll have to get that sorted. That was a bit disappointing from my point of view," he said.

It is a facet the Saints will have to get right with the Eagles boasting a star-studded midfielder of Sam Mitchell, Matthew Priddis, Luke Shuey and Andrew Gaff.

"They touched us up last year so we'll have to come out firing," he said.