Collingwood have regained Luke Ball but lost fellow premiership midfielder Dale Thomas in four changes for Saturday night’s AFL clash with unbeaten Geelong at the MCG.

The Magpies have recalled Ball following a knee reconstruction, along with Jarrod Witts, Jordan Russell and Marley Williams.

Thomas has been ruled out for at least two weeks with an ongoing ankle problem which required surgery in the off-season.

Geelong have been boosted by the inclusions of experienced duo Joel Corey and Josh Hunt to replace James Kelly (suspension) and Taylor Hunt (shoulder injury).

Essendon have also made four changes for Saturday’s clash with Brisbane, with Brent Stanton and Patrick Ryder among the inclusions.

Brent Staker returns for the Lions.

Hawthorn have rested Josh Gibson (ankle) for Saturday’s game against bottom side Greater Western Sydney in Launceston.

West Coast regain Daniel Kerr, Beau Waters, Chris Masten and Adam Selwood while North Melbourne have recalled key defender Nathan Grima from injury for Friday’s crucial encounter at Patersons Stadium.

North’s skipper Andrew Swallow (knee) has also been passed fit to play.

Mitch Wallis is one of four players dropped by Western Bulldogs, who take on Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.

In Saturday night’s SCG clash, Shane Mumford is back as one of three inclusions for Sydney in their game against Fremantle who have recalled Zac Clarke and Nat Fyfe.

Richmond have lost Shane Tuck (shoulder), Ivan Maric (ankle) and Chris Knights (knee) to injuries but regain skipper Trent Cotchin for Sunday’s MCG game against Melbourne.

Key forward Jarrad Waite returns from suspension but Bryce Gibbs (hamstring) has been given another week on the sidelines for Carlton who play Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.