Fremantle coach Ross Lyon says goalsneak Michael Walters is likely to make his AFL return in Sunday’s clash with Hawthorn at Patersons Stadium.

Walters made a successful return from ankle surgery last Saturday, tallying 19 possessions and a goal in the WAFL.

The 23-year-old booted 46 goals last season, and would add invaluable pace and pressure to the Dockers’ forward line if he is recalled.

Dockers coach Ross Lyon said he would consider playing four small forwards – Walters, Hayden Ballantyne, Hayden Crozier and Max Duffy – in the same team.

“It’s exciting. They’re real offensive threats,” Lyon said.

“(Walters” is more than likely to play. He did himself no harm (in the WAFL last week).

Dockers defender Luke McPharlin faces a battle to get himself fit for the finals after being ruled out for three weeks with a calf injury.

McPharlin has been troubled by the complaint for several weeks now, and will be replaced by Alex Silvagni.

Fremantle sit a game clear of Port Adelaide in fourth spot, but a loss to Hawthorn could see them tumble down to fifth.

The Hawks will be without suspended forward Jarryd Roughead, while Jack Gunston is expected to miss the grand final re-match with a knee injury.

Fullback Brian Lake is available for selection after serving a four-match ban, but the Hawks may hold him back for next week’s clash with Geelong given the six-day break between games.