KEY ST KILDA midfielders Jack Steven and David Armitage have pushed strong claims on the training track to return from injury in Sunday's crucial game against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium.

Steven has missed one match with a punctured lung, while Armitage has been sidelined for a fortnight with a groin injury after pulling up sore from the Saints' season opener against Melbourne.

Football manager Jamie Cox said both players would need to pass fitness tests before team selection on Thursday, but early signs this week were positive. 

The injury list: Who's racing the clock for round four?

"Both Jack Steven and David Armitage have trained pretty well over the last three or four days," Cox told the club's website. 

"Both are going to have to get medical clearance and both are likely to train again strongly on Thursday.

"They will be tested on Thursday to see whether either of them are available against Collingwood."

Coach Alan Richardson said on Sunday night the pair would be given every opportunity to prove their fitness, but no risks would be taken.

The Saints and Magpies will each be aiming to square their seasons at 2-2 in a big match for two teams aiming to play finals. 

Young defender Hugh Goddard has completed his rehabilitation from a ruptured Achilles tendon and is a chance to make his anticipated return in the VFL after a back spasm last week delayed his comeback.