Naitanui Debut Around The Corner

Exciting West Coast ruckman Nick Naitanui is closer to his AFL debut after a decent outing for Swan Districts in the WAFL on the weekend.

Eagles coach John Worsfold said Naitanui, the number two 2008 AFL Draft selection, is ready to play at the top level, but didn't indicate whether or not that would be this weekend or later in the season.

"His form has improved week-to-week. So he's now ready to play at the highest level if that opportunity is there for him," Worsfold said.

Naitanui's debut has been long-awaited by DT coaches with over 26,000 sides owning his services.

The Eagles also revealed $343k midfielder Andrew Embley is likely to miss this weekend with an ankle injury, while Daniel Kerr will probably come straight back into the side after serving a one-match suspension.

Veteran defender David Wirrpanda should also return after a hamstring injury.

The return of those two star Eagles will probably mean Naitanui's debut will be put on hold another week, along with the fact West Coast put up a pretty decent show against Geelong last weekend meaning too many changes aren't likely.

Finally if you own the Eagles highly-rated number 18 2008 AFL Draft pick Luke Shuey, it would be wise to trade him as it has been revealed he will be unavailable for up to 2 months due to a fibula fracture.