West Coast coach Adam Simpson has praised the way Nic Naitanui has handled his recent "rollercoaster" journey ahead of the ruckman's long-awaited playing return.
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Naitanui will line up for West Coast's WAFL side against East Fremantle on Saturday with the 29-year-old expected to play around 60 minutes.
It will be Naitanui's first match since tearing the ACL in his right knee during the round 17 win over Collingwood last year.
That injury came just two years after Naitanui tore the ACL in his left knee.
Naitanui's recovery has gone much smoother this time and Simpson is hopeful the 2012 All-Australian will only need one WAFL hitout before returning to AFL ranks.
If all goes to plan, Naitanui will make his senior return in next week's clash with Hawthorn at the MCG.
Simpson was in tears when Naitanui tore his ACL for the second time and he's looking forward to seeing the Fijian back in action.
"The rollercoaster he's been on in the last two or three years - it's been tremendous the way he's handled himself," Simpson said.
"Great reward for all the rehab he's done. Hopefully he gets through this week and then we can talk about next week.
"We're really proud of the fact that he's available."
Naitanui's return comes at a delicate time in regards to his contract negotiations.
The Eagles have already tabled an offer, but a strong return from Naitanui could help boost the deal.
Defender Tom Barrass will also return in Saturday's WAFL match at East Fremantle Oval.
It will be his first game since undergoing foot surgery following the round four win over Fremantle.
The Eagles moved up to fourth spot following Thursday night's 35-point win over Essendon and the return of Naitanui and Barrass in the coming weeks will help strengthen their premiership defence.
Forward Josh Kennedy booted a wayward 3.5 against the Bombers in a match he almost missed through sickness.
"I'm not sure if it was tonsillitis, but he was a bit crook (on Wednesday) night. Maybe that's why he kicked 3.5," Simpson joked.
"I got a text (Thursday) morning saying he's unlikely - that if he keeps going downhill he won't play.
"But then I got another email later in the day saying he's all good. So all good."
Simpson praised the AFL debut of goalsneak Jarrod Cameron, who booted 2.2 and laid seven tackles in a strong display.
Australian Associated Press
