Western Bulldogs forward Jack Redpath will make his long-awaited return from a knee injury in the VFL against Richmond this weekend.

Redpath ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in Round 18 last season, and will return ahead of schedule in Saturday’s curtain raiser at Etihad Stadium.

The 26-year-old was in career-best form before being struck down with injury, playing 10 matches in 2016, booting 20 goals and averaging six marks per game.

“Given his injury history, it was very disappointing for everyone at the Club to see Jack hurt his knee last season,” said Head Physiotherapist Chris Bell.

“His approach to his rehab has been outstanding, and it’s a credit to his diligence and hard work that he has got himself ready to return to the field.

“We will monitor Jack’s game time with a view to increasing his workload over the next few weeks.”

Footscray takes on Richmond in the VFL at Etihad Stadium at 3.30pm, before the AFL game between the Bulldogs and Tigers from 7.25pm.