HAWTHORN is almost certain to make at least one change for its clash against Port Adelaide on Thursday night.

Cyril Rioli is set to return for the Hawks after missing Round 14 to attend his grandfather’s funeral in Darwin.

Picking the unlucky man who will make way for Rioli will be no easy task after a strong team effort - and injury-free match - against the Gold Coast Suns.

It still remains to be seen though if Rioli’s inclusion will be the only change, with a number of VFL players pushing their case for a senior recall or debut.

Brendan Whitecross has been one of Box Hill’s most consistent performers this season having played all 10 VFL matches so far this year. 

While Kade Stewart and Marc Pittonet will also be pushing for a senior recall after being named as emergencies for the Hawks’ Round 14 match against Gold Coast.

Kurt Heatherley, Blake Hardwick and Teia Miles have also continued to impress for Box Hill and are building strong cases to make their AFL debut in 2016.