SHARROD Wellingham is a chance to play in the WAFL this week after recovering from a knee problem that has sidelined him since early March.
Wellingham did not play in the NAB Challenge and has missed the first three AFL rounds after suffering a knee knock at a training session late in the pre-season.
His recovery has taken a lot longer than was initially expected but Eagles' football manager Craig Vozzo told the club's website on Tuesday that he could be ready to play in the WAFL this week.
"Sharrod has made great progress over the last three weeks to the point where we're seriously considering game minutes this week via East Perth," Vozzo said.
"He's got to get through training this week and if he does we expect him to be available to play some time at East Perth."
The Eagles received some further good news with Xavier Ellis tracking well ahead of schedule after suffering a partial tear of his Achilles in round one.
"He has progressed really well, quicker than we've all expected," Vozzo said.
"He's done some on-ground work and we are looking to build him up over the next couple of weeks and expect that he'll play some game minutes within the next two to three weeks."
There are some more immediate concerns for the Eagles heading to Friday night's clash with Richmond. Eric Mackenzie (toe), Jeremy McGovern (AC joint) and Jamie Cripps (thigh/knee) all face fitness tests later this week.
Mackenzie was seen in a moon boot on Sunday but Vozzo confirmed it was a precautionary move to protect his injured toe.
"We knew going into the game he's had some problems with a toe," Vozzo said.
"So we took a conservative approach post-game with a boot, just to provide some protection. We'll do that over the next few weeks but we expect him to be available and playing."
McGovern is expected to be available but Cripps will have a race against the clock after suffering a cork in his lower thigh, just above the left knee, in last week's win over Fremantle.
Draftee Kurt Mutimer (hamstring) and rookie Simon Tunbridge (back) are both a chance to play in the WAFL this week after completing long rehab programs over the summer.
