HAWTHORN will need to make at least one change for Thursday night’s top-of-the-table clash with Sydney Swans at the SCG.
 
The Hawks will be without Liam Shiels due to a hamstring injury, opening up the door for another midfielder to make his mark.
 
Jonathan O’Rourke might be the front-runner, after successfully returning from a thumb injury for Box Hill Hawks on Saturday.
 
O’Rourke played just over two quarters of football at VFL level - collecting 23 disposals - to suggest he will be in frame to return for his fourth senior game of 2016.
 
But there’s plenty of competition for spots, and plenty of players in good form for Box Hill Hawks.
 
Brendan Whitecross (33 disposals) has had a great fortnight at VFL level, and was named his side’s best player at the weekend. 

With his ability to play across all three lines, the 26-year-old could offer another element of versatility against the Swans.
 
Rebounding defender Angus Litherland (25 disposals), in-and-under midfielder Kieran Lovell (23 disposals) and small defender/forward Teia Miles (22 disposals, two goals) all impressed at VFL level on the weekend.
 
Litherland and Lovell will be seeking to return to the AFL side, Whitecross is pushing to play his first AFL game this season and Miles is yet to debut, but stringing together a fine VFL season.
 
Key forward Tim O’Brien could also be a chance to return.
 
O’Brien was a late withdrawal due to illness against Port Adelaide, after playing 11 consecutive games at AFL level.
 
However, the 22-year-old did play at VFL level on Saturday, kicking one goal against Williamstown.
 
It’s bound to present another tough decision for the Hawks’ match committee, with the man who replaced O’Brien – second-year player Daniel Howe – impressing with 17 disposals and five tackles against the Power on Thursday night.