Ruck-forward Tim English and speedster Laitham Vandermeer could bolster the Western Bulldogs’ line-up for Sunday’s clash with Carlton at Marvel Stadium.

Vandermeer (back) and English (concussion) sustained injuries in the Bulldogs’ round six win against the GWS Giants.

Both have been listed as tests to take on the Blues after missing Friday night’s loss against Richmond.

“Laitham didn’t play on the weekend due to some persistent back spasms,” head of sports medicine, Chris Bell, said.

“He’s come in really well today and if he fully trains without any issues this week, he’ll return to availability.

“Tim has continued to progress well in line with our concussion process.

“We want to be ultra-conservative with Tim’s management to make sure he’s fully recovered. He still has to tick some boxes this week to determine his availability and we’ll make this decision later in the week.”

After a long stint in rehabilitation due to an ACL injury, Toby McLean will be back into full training this week.

“In some exciting news, Toby has finished the final stages of his rehab,” Bell said.

“He’s back into unrestricted, full training and we’ll look to build some continuity in his work over the next 3-4 weeks before he returns to playing some games.”

Defensive duo Bailey Williams (collarbone) and Ryan Gardner (shoulder) are also both on the verge of returning.

They will be unavailable to face Carlton, but could be in line to play the following week.

Injury list

Tim English (concussion) test
Laitham Vandermeer (back) test
Bailey Williams (collarbone) 1 week
Ryan Gardner (shoulder) 1-2 weeks
Toby McLean (knee) 3-4 weeks
Ed Richards (ankle) 3-5 weeks
Lin Jong (hamstring) 10-12 weeks
Josh Dunkley (shoulder) 12-16 weeks