Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson is wary of ex-Hawk Lance Franklin in the top-of-the-ladder clash with Sydney at the SCG on Thursday night.

Clarkson said Franklin was the most influential player in the second-placed Swans’ last-start win over Geelong due to his midfield shift, which rendered the Cats’ defensive plans useless.

Brendan Whitecross, Will Langford and Jono O’Rourke are in contention for selection for Hawthorn, with Liam Shiels ruled out due to a hamstring injury.