Liam Picken and Marcus Bontempelli will be welcomed back by the Bullldogs for their clash with Brisbane on Saturday night, with coach Luke Beveridge making two changes to the side that faced Port Adelaide.

Picken and Bontempelli both missed the Dogs’ match against the Power in round 10 due to minor injuries, but have recovered well following the bye and will be welcome inclusions to a youthful Dogs side.

Assistant coach Daniel Giansiracusa said both players would be valuable additions, particularly Picken who brings 138 games into the team.

“(Liam’s) had a really good year, it’s a different role for him this year and he’s taken it on really well.

“He’s kicked a few goals for us, he’s used the ball really well so we’re looking forward to him doing it again on the weekend.”

After a solid start to the season, where he has received significant attention from opposition taggers, Giansiracusa said Bontempelli was an important member of the midfield fleet.

“It’s been a really good learning year for him, it’s only his second year so he’s learning a lot as he goes along.

“He’s a vital player for us but in terms of our midfield, we think we’ve got a lot of depth there and anyone can step up at any given day.”

Although the Lions sit 16th on the ladder, Giansiracusa said his side would need to be wary of Justin Leppitsch’s men.

“They are a competitive outfit, they beat Port who we came up against last time we were out there.

“They’ve got some really attacking players, especially in their forward half so we’re going to have to be right on our game and you’d like to think we would be after a week off.”

Stewart Crameri (ankle) and Lin Jong (omitted) come out of the side to make way for Picken and Bontempelli.

ROUND 12 – Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions
Saturday 20 June, 7:20pm
Venue: Etihad Stadium

In: L Picken, M Bontempelli

Out: L Jong (omitted), S Crameri (ankle)