Luke Beveridge talks to the team during its shock round six loss to Carlton. Picture: AFL Photos

WESTERN Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge will swing the axe following his side's 52-point loss to Carlton on Sunday night.

OFF THE LEASH Young Dog to debut against Dons

Hayden Crozier is a certain starter as he returns from a one-match suspension and speedy forward Cody Weightman will also make his debut against Essendon on Friday night. 

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"Already this week we've had the four changes, none forced by injury, but in a sense its reward for players who are working hard behind the scenes for their opportunity," Beveridge said on Thursday morning.

Sam Lloyd has re-joined the main group earlier than expected from a collarbone injury, but the Dogs could instead choose to play him in a scratch match against the Bombers' non-selected group instead. 

THE FULL INJURY LIST Who is racing the clock?

Lewis Young and Matt Suckling could be right in the mix, while potential debutants Jordon Sweet and Callum Porter have frequently been listed as emergencies.

IN THE MIX Who's a chance, who's under the pump

Ryan Gardner was withdrawn from the emergency list last week with a minor calf injury and might be considered if he pulls up well. 

Second-gamer Louis Butler found plenty of the ball against Carlton but had some costly turnovers, while forwards Josh Schache (two disposals), Bailey Dale (six disposals) and Rhylee West (nine disposals) will be feeling the heat at the selection table. 

The Bulldogs piled on 21 consecutive goals last time they faced the Bombers, but Beveridge says there's not a lot his side can take from that game

"We haven't really gone to school too much on that," Beveridge said.

"They've changed significantly since then, not just personnel wise but the way that they're playing. 

"The momentum and the surge side of the game is significantly different to what we've seen in the past."