Former premiership star Daniel Kerr reckons West Coast are almost certain to beat North Melbourne on Saturday night as the Eagles close in on their fourth AFL flag.

The Kangaroos created history last weekend when they became the first team to make a preliminary final from eighth spot.

But they’ll start as rank underdogs against the Eagles at Domain Stadium on Saturday night when both sides face off for a spot in the grand final.

Kerr tasted premiership success as part of the Eagles’ blue-chip midfield in 2006.

The 32-year-old, who retired at the end of 2013 following a glittering 220-game career, says his former club is well placed to go all the way under second-year coach Adam Simpson.

“I think having North Melbourne at home is a fantastic opportunity to get them to the grand final,” Kerr said.

“It will all depend on who they play there, but it’s almost a certainty this week.

“I went to the footy last week (when they beat Hawthorn) and felt the atmosphere and it was electric, and I’ll be there this week again supporting the boys.

“It’s a really good feeling seeing your mates do really well.”

The Eagles dismantled Hawthorn in the qualifying final two weeks ago, and they’re set to be boosted by the return of Chris Masten (hamstring) and Matt Priddis (thigh) for the preliminary final.

Midfielder Luke Shuey battled foot pain last week, but he trained strongly on Monday to dispel any injury fears.

Kerr has endured a turbulent time since his retirement two years ago.

The 2007 All-Australian was arrested last year after a confrontation in which he poured petrol over the interior of a house and threatened to set it alight.

Kerr received a suspended jail term over the incident.

On Monday, Kerr was fined $2000 after pleading guilty to breaching a violence restraining order by sending abusive text messages to his estranged wife.

Kerr, who is currently working in Kalgoorlie as a project manager and mentor for Indigenous Services Australia, has vowed to turn his life around and never return to court.