Fremantle weighs injury-hit defender Brennan Cox for Grand Final over Oscar McDonald

Jordan Clark told reporters that he believes Brennan Cox can perform on the AFL’s biggest stage should he be recalled for the Grand Final, a move that would push Oscar McDonald out of the side. Cox has not played since a calf injury in the late-season loss to Carlton and earlier missed two games with knee soreness, and was deliberately omitted from the WAFL grand final to preserve his fitness. In Cox’s absence, McDonald stepped in and helped Fremantle defeat Sydney in the preliminary final, though he took a hard hit from teammate Mason Cox.

The Dockers arrived in Melbourne on Thursday and will learn the final lineup on Friday night, while Brisbane awaits the outcome of Lachie Neale’s appeals board hearing, which could affect their own defensive options. Rain is expected for Saturday, but Clark said it would not significantly impact the game. The decision will determine which defender joins the team for the championship match.