There's no tougher prospect in the AFL than taking on the Demons. The reigning premiers are unbeaten in their last 16 games dating back to Round 19 last season, and even their VFL side is undefeated in 2022 and placing immense selection pressure on an already strong side.

That's the prospect that faces David Noble and his side this weekend, however the Kangaroos have a number of players to call on to strengthen their chances against Narrm (Melbourne).

North Media looks at who is in the mix.

A number of star Kangaroos are primed to make their return to the side this weekend against Narrm (Melbourne), with the midfield in particular set for a refresh against the reigning premiers.

Jy Simpkin, Jason Horne-Francis and Hugh Greenwood all missed last week's clash with Port Adelaide and look set to bolster the middle of the ground this week.

Simpkin was a late omission from the side due to a hamstring issue picked up the day before the game. He was also ill in the week leading up to the clash.

Horne-Francis was not named in the side due to a minor hamstring issue of his own, while Greenwood missed due to health and safety protocols.

Tristan Xerri could regain the mantle of No.1 ruck as he ramps up for his first senior appearance since Round 6.

Xerri has missed the last three games due to a foot injury picked up in the aftermath of the Geelong clash, however he's in line to make an earlier than expected return and could be in contention to take on the strong Demons' ruck duo of Max Gawn and Luke Jackson.

The late omission of Simpkin from the Port Adelaide game saw Charlie Lazzaro promoted to the role of injury substitute for the clash.

While his services weren't required on the day, Lazzaro's performances in the midfield and forward lines at VFL level have obviously put him close to a senior return.

He returned to Melbourne in time to play a part in a tough VFL defeat to Casey where, much like most of his fellow attacking players, he struggled to assert himself on the game.

First year player Josh Goater was North's best AFL-listed performer in the defeat to the VFL Demons and continues to progress his game at reserve level.

After picking up a concussion in the first quarter against Carlton in Round 6 of the VFL, Goater made his return against Casey and was the Kangaroos' best AFL-listed performer in the defeat.

He's putting pressure on the club's senior defenders as he continues pushing for a senior debut, however playing just one game in three weeks could count against him.

Charlie Comben missed the clash with Casey due to a persisting knee issue but continues to train. His strong bank of performances at reserve level could see him come in and provide another strong marking target alongside Nick Larkey.