LUKE Hodge says he is on the verge of signing a new contract with Hawthorn in the lead-up to his 150th game.

Hodge’s contract expires at the end of the season but he says his management and the Hawks are close to agreeing to a new deal.

“I’d say so. My manager’s over in Perth at the moment. They’ve been talking regularly and it should be done soon,” Hodge said.

This week’s clash with Richmond marks Hodge’s 150th game but the straight-talking Hodge was not about to get too carried away with individual honours.

“It’s life membership with the club which is always good. Our focus is pretty much to beat Richmond this weekend and see how we go,” he said.

The Hawks are still in the hunt for a finals position despite losing their past four games. Hodge said the players can’t afford to look at the big picture and must simply focus on beating their opposition.

“It’s probably been the same situation the last two or three weeks. With the footy we’ve put up in the last month we probably don’t deserve to make finals,” Hodge said.

“We’re still a mathematical chance and as long as we can improve our form and win the next two games anything’s possible. We need to play more consistent football.”

Veteran Stuart Dew is a chance to earn a recall this week, while ruckman Max Bailey could return to play his first game since 2006 after enduring a horror run with knee injuries.

“Dewey will be training this week and I’m pretty sure if he gets through training he’ll be available. He’s got to get through the last few training sessions,” Hodge said.

Bailey was left out of the Box Hill side that faced the Bendigo Bombers on the weekend but was one of the side’s best the week before.

“Maxy’s played the last three or four games with Box Hill and has done really well. He’s worked on his fitness and making sure he can get through a game first,” Hodge said.