Tim English celebrates a goal during the Western Bulldogs' clash against Collingwood in round 12, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos

WESTERN Bulldogs ruckman Tim English is pushing for a surprise return for Friday night’s wildcard final against Collingwood at the MCG.

The 2022 All-Australian missed the final two games of the home and away season due to an MCL strain. 

Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge initially ruled English out of the first week of the finals earlier this month. 

But now the West Australian has emerged as a chance to play ahead of schedule against the Magpies. 

Tim English during the round 22 match between Western Bulldogs and North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium, on August 6, 2026. Picture: AFL Photos

Star key forward Aaron Naughton is expected to take his place after injuring his ankle in Saturday’s win over Melbourne. 

Naughton finished the game off the ground and is set for a light week on the track. 

Veteran midfielder Tom Liberatore will need the Western Bulldogs to progress deep into September to play again in 2026. 

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Key forwards go down at either end in huge injury blows

Aaron Naughton is ruled out of the game with an ankle injury as Matthew Jefferson comes from the field with a suspected knee injury

The 34-year-old underwent knee surgery over the weekend to resolve lingering soreness and repair damaged cartilage. 

Liberatore is yet to secure a deal for 2027 and might have played the final game of his decorated career at the Whitten Oval. 

The road to the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership