CRUCIAL West Coast spearhead Josh Kennedy is struggling with a fresh leg injury that will keep him sidelined from the Western Derby, and possibly longer.

Kennedy returned after three weeks recovering from a hairline fracture near his right knee in round 17 and booted three goals as the Eagles secured a potentially season-defining MCG triumph against Collingwood.

But the battle-scarred 30-year-old lasted only one more match before going down with another leg issue at training when he was kneed in the shin by defender Tom Cole last Thursday.

"He just got a fresh knock on the shin which (was) a new incident and unfortunately for him it might push him out for the next week and, hopefully, not the week after," coach Adam Simpson told Channel Seven on Monday night.

"We'll have to assess that. We think it's pretty doubtful this week."

MATCH PREVIEW Eagles v Dockers

The Eagles hold a 3-4 record when Kennedy has missed this season, but boast 10 wins from 11 games with him in the line-up.

Despite sitting out seven games, the dual Coleman medallist has still booted an equal club-high 34 majors, level with sidekick Jack Darling, who missed four matches recovering from a nasty ankle injury.

Kennedy's durability is becoming a concern for the Eagles, however his most recent setbacks have been collision injuries.

"I rolled into Tuesday training feeling really, really good. I felt the best I've felt all year," Kennedy told 6PR.

"To get another knock and not be able to run, turn, lead and participate in training (on Thursday) was a bit disappointing.

"I had a fracture in the top of the fibia. Part of this front bit (of my leg) where I got this knee is a similar area, but it's more the shin.

"I don't think I'll be playing (in the derby).

"I'm hoping to (return against Port Adelaide). That's the plan. We've got to make sure this settles."

"If I can't train this week then it's probably unlikely for next week."

After being beaten up by North Melbourne (-26 contested possessions), the Eagles will welcome back gun midfielder Luke Shuey after he rushed home from Hobart to be with his pregnant partner.

"Young Dani is heavily pregnant and he had to get home to be by her side for a short period of time, so I think he'll be OK this week," Simpson said.

Elite kicking half-back Lewis Jetta is also aiming to return after carrying a calf niggle.

The Eagles will be gunning for seven straight victories over the Dockers in their home derby on Sunday but, more importantly, can remain a game clear in second spot on the ladder with their 14th win. 

"What a great round of footy we've got coming up. For us to play the derby on the weekend, that's going to be a massive game," Simpson said.

"But there's some really good games across the competition.

"Hopefully it ends on a bit of a high note for us on the weekend."