Star midfielder Tom Mitchell’s return to his prolific best against the Lions is a significant boost for the Hawks ahead of their clash with ladder-leaders West Coast.

Mitchell, who broke the record for the most disposals in a game with 54 in Round 1, was left without a heavy tag by the Lions and finished with 46 disposals – the third most in his career.

While the Lions secured a comfortable 56-point win, Mitchell was still able to have a field day, continuing what’s been arguably his career-best season.

Currently second favourite to take out the Brownlow medal, the number three is averaging career-highs in kicks (16.3), inside 50s (5.3), clearances (9.4) and contested possessions (17.6) and is likely to be a large part of West Coast’s preparations to take on the Hawks.

The last time the Hawks faced the Eagles Mitchell was his typical damaging self through the midfield, awarded two Brownlow votes for his 37-disposal, six-clearance performance as the Hawks got over the line by 50 points.     

As for whether Adam Simpson sends a tag to the on-baller will be something fans will have to wait to find out.

The Eagles could deploy renowned stopper Mark Hutchings to shadow Mitchell, while midfielder Elliot Yeo could also go head to head with the reigning Best and Fairest winner after successfully getting the better of Dustin Martin in the Eagles’ recent win over Richmond.

All is set to be revealed at 1:10pm on Sunday at Etihad Stadium.