THE WESTERN Bulldogs are optimistic veteran midfielder Matthew Boyd will be fit to face the Brisbane Lions on Saturday night after he missed Sunday's loss to Fremantle.

The 31-year-old was a late withdrawal from the 38-point defeat at the hands of the Dockers with a tight hamstring.

However, the Dogs expect him to be in the mix for Saturday night's clash with the Lions at Etihad Stadium after they took a cautious approach at the weekend.

"Matt was still carrying some tightness throughout the week, we gave him every chance to get up to play but felt it was in his best interests to not continue with the game this week," medical services manager Andrew McKenzie told the club's website.

"He will train in the main session this week and we expect that he will be available."

Defender Daniel Pearce is expected to return to the field this week after overcoming a medial ligament injury his knee, sustained in a VFL practice match earlier in the year.

Twitter: @AFL_JenPhelan