Hawthorn Coach Sam Mitchell says he is looking forward to having exciting spearhead Mitch Lewis return for his first game for the year on Saturday.

Lewis will be a welcome inclusion back to the young Hawks brigade after spending the pre-season on the sidelines due to a knee injury.

Mitchell confirmed on Thursday that the 24-year-old would come straight back into the senior side, dismissing any possibility of returning via the VFL. 

"He was desperate to play last week, but he would've played very limited minutes," Mitchell said. 

"We could have exposed him to some VFL last week, but we thought let's do everything right, and give him every chance.

"He looks match ready... we just need him is to play his role and do his job.

"I think when Mitch walks out next to Fergus Greene, Ferg will be thinking 'this is nice' to have another key forward next to him. 

"We’re really glad that he’s back and he’s worked hard."

Meanwhile, Mitchell also hinted that draftee Josh Weddle was moving closer to making his AFL debut.

"About two weeks ago I had a chat with him and said 'I think you're AFL-ready now'," Mitchell said. 

"If a spot comes up, we'd be more than happy to play him, he deserves a game... but there are a lot of other variables in that."

Hawthorn is set to take on the Western Bulldogs this Saturday at Marvel Stadium from 4.35pm. 

The Hawks will announce its side to take on the Dogs today at 6.20pm on hawthornfc.com.au.

Listen to the full press conference from Mitchell below.