West Coast expect defender Jeremy McGovern to face the Bombers as the five-time All-Australian faces a crucial fitness test on his groin on Wednesday.

It comes as the Eagles also expect youngster Elijah Hewett to boost the struggling outfit, returning from a calf injury.

West Coast’s High Performance Manager Mat Inness revealed McGovern completed a “significant session” over the weekend, meaning he now just needs to get through the club’s main training to be available for selection ahead of the Good Friday clash with Essendon.

Coach Andrew McQualter was hopeful his star man in defence would return this week when speaking to 7NEWS on Monday.

“We’re really hopeful Gov will be right to play this week,” he told 7NEWS.

“He’s been able to complete his way through his rehab, so he’ll just tick off training on Wednesday, and he’ll be great to have back in our side this week.”

McGovern has not featured since the western derby in round three after straining a groin, leaving the Eagles essentially down to rookie key defenders.

And it left Sandy Brock to be fed to the wolves against premiership fancies Greater Western Sydney as reigning Coleman medallist Jesse Hogan booted an equal career-high nine goals on him during his firebrand AFL debut.

The Eagles will take any reinforcements they can get after recording their worst-ever start to a season in 2025 with five straight defeats.

Hewett lost his entire 2024 campaign to injury but looks to have cleared his latest hurdle.

“Elijah also got through his session on the weekend and will be available for selection to face the Bombers,” Inness said.

Ruckman turned defender Callum Jamieson is also tracking for a return to play in coming weeks but likely for the WAFL side.

“Cal is now in full training, and will likely return to gameplay next week,” Inness said.

“We’re continuing to build up his stability from his knee and ankle injuries from last season.”