HAWTHORN may be forced into one change ahead of their cut throat semi final against the Western Bulldogs on Friday night at the MCG.

Ryan Burton sustained a corked calf during the Hawks’ loss to Geelong last week, and took no further part in the match after half time.

The first-year player has played four games at AFL level in 2016 and will need to prove his fitness at training to be named for the clash.

Taylor Duryea was also nursing a sore hand after the heart breaking two-point loss to the Cats, but is expected to play against the Dogs.

Forward James Sicily was a late withdrawal from the Hawthorn side on Friday night with gastro, however is all but certain to be available this week.

Sicily has had a breakout year at Waverley, playing 21 games thus far in 2016 for a return of 29 goals and a NAB Rising Star nomination.

Speedy midfielder Billy Hartung could also come under consideration for a recall after missing out on playing in the Hawks’ qualifying final loss.

Matt Spangher could also loom as a wildcard inclusion for the reigning premiers, should they wish to stretch the Western Bulldogs for height in their back half.

The Western Bulldogs will be required to swing at least one change, with Lin Jong breaking his collarbone in the Dogs’ win over the West Coast Eagles last Thursday night.

Toby McLean, Lucas Webb and Rourke Smith were all promptly pulled out of Footscray’s VFL semi final against Essendon on Sunday, allowing the Dogs to keep their options open for Jong’s replacement.

Both sides will name their respective teams for the huge clash at 6.25pm on Thursday evening.