A combination of players returning from injury and some strong performances at VFL level will provide the match committee with more flexibility as North prepares to take on Richmond in Hobart on Saturday.

With a crunch match against the Tigers looming at Blundstone Arena, the Roos may look to bolster their defensive stocks to take on Jack Riewoldt and co.

Have your say on any potential changes in the comments section below.

Defenders

The absence of Lachlan Hansen to the North side can’t be understated. One of the competition’s best intercept marks when he’s fit and firing, the 26-year has now played two VFL matches for Werribee and is close to a return following hip surgery in the off-season.

In his most recent outing, Hansen collected 14 disposals and took 11 marks.

"He intercepted marks three or four times throughout the day, like the Lachie Hansen that we’ve seen in the AFL. It was really great to see him getting back to doing that sort of stuff. He stepped it up a bit today. His form was better," Senior Development Coach Gavin Brown said.

On Wednesday, Brad Scott confirmed Hansen would be named in the Roos' side.

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Luke McDonald could also return after missing the last two matches with leg soreness, but will have to get through training on Wednesday.

Midfielders

North fans are holding their breath for the return of Daniel Wells and NMFC.com.au has listed the silky midfielder as a ‘test’ on the club’s official injury report.

Unfortunately, they'll have to wait at least another week with Scott confirming he'll miss the clash against the Tigers.

Forwards

A late withdrawal from the side that went down to the Hawks, Jarrad Waite will be back in contention if he passes a fitness test on his hamstring this week. If he’s not cleared to play, Majak Daw could be considered for his first game of the year after a dominant display in the VFL.

The key-forward had 17 disposals, 8 marks and booted 3 goals for Werribee.

"He was the story of the day really. He was brilliant," Brown said.

"Some of his marking was absolutely spectacular. It was a bit of a highlight reel today. The whole crowd was really on their feet when he was on the ground."