West Coast defender Will Schofield is backing Jeremy McGovern to play through pain as the club attempts to land a dream AFL premiership.

McGovern re-injured his left shoulder during Friday night’s 32-point win over Hawthorn but he’s expected to take his place in the side when West Coast host a preliminary final in a fortnight.

Schofield says McGovern is an exceptional defender even if he is struggling to use his left arm.