West Coast forward Josh Kennedy is almost certain to make his AFL return in Saturday night’s clash with Collingwood at Patersons Stadium, while former Magpie Brad Dick is in line to join him.

Kennedy, who hasn’t played in the AFL since badly injuring his ankle in the round-five win over Richmond, moved freely and booted two goals in the WAFL last Sunday.

The ace spearhead turns 25 on Saturday, and Eagles’ coach John Worsfold gave every indication on Wednesday that Kennedy’s birthday celebrations would include an AFL recall.

Dick, whose five-year stint at Collingwood was blighted by serious knee and shoulder injuries, has also thrust his name into the selection frame after a six-goal haul in the WAFL.

The banged-up 24-year-old arrived at West Coast via the rookie list at the end of last year, and had to wait until early June before making his first WAFL appearance of the season after taking time to recover from his second knee reconstruction.

Worsfold has been impressed with Dick’s progression over the past two months, and said he would give serious consideration to selecting the 181cm speedster this week.

Dick’s chances have been helped by the poor recent form of fellow goalsneaks Josh Hill and Ashton Hams, who have combined for just two goals in the past three weeks.

“He’s been a chance to play for the last month. We’re really pleased with how he’s tracking and he’s on our list and available for selection,” Worsfold said of Dick.

But it’s the imminent return of Kennedy that shapes as the final piece of the puzzle to West Coast’s premiership charge.

Jack Darling has battled valiantly as the club’s go-to man up forward in the absence of Kennedy.

But the injection of Kennedy has the potential to turn fifth-placed West Coast into a legitimate premiership contender.

And Collingwood could be the team who pay the price, with Kennedy boasting a good record of hitting peak form straight after injury.

In round one this year, Kennedy booted seven goals against the Western Bulldogs despite missing the entire pre-season with a foot injury.

“He’s ready to go,” Worsfold said of the former Blue, who kicked 59 goals last year.

“It’s just good to see him get the chance to play footy. He’s got a big smile on his face. He loves playing the game. That’s what he’s all about.

“I don’t expect that he’ll be at his absolute best this week, but he’ll still be very good.”

Veteran Eagles’ defender Adam Selwood (concussion) and wingman Matt Rosa (jaw) will be further assessed this week to determine their availability, while Collingwood will be bolstered by the return of star midfielder Dan Swan from his club-imposed suspension.

West Coast need to defeat Collingwood and Hawthorn to secure a prized top-four spot.