FREMANTLE appear set to be bolstered by the inclusion of small forward Michael Walters for Sunday’s blockbuster against Hawthorn.

Walters made a successful return from injury in the WAFL last weekend in his first match since Round 3.

Last year’s club leading goal kicker picked up 19 disposals and kicked a goal in his return, impressing the Fremantle coaching and fitness staff.

Fremantle coach Ross Lyon revealed on Wednesday Walters is likely to make his long-awaited return on Sunday.

“More than likely,” Lyon told media about the prospect of Walters playing on Sunday.

“He did himself no harm (in the WAFL). At some point we’d like to give him an opportunity.”

Walters was expected to miss the remainder of the season with an ankle injury but has made a remarkable recovery to potentially make an impact for his team this season.

The dynamic small forward was Fremantle’s leading goal kicker last season with 46, enjoying his best-ever year at the level.

His performance with WAFL side Peel Thunder suggested he’s lost none of his creative ability and goal sense.

Fremantle Senior Development and Assistant Coach Simon Lloyd was full of praise for Walters’ return after 18 weeks on the sidelines.

“He moved really well,” Lloyd told the club’s website.

“Michael was really dangerous around forward 50 stoppages where he was able to lose his opponents in traffic and showed some sharp change of angles.

“It was a positive day for Michael and it was great to have him out there.”

Lyon flagged the possibility of going small up forward with the inclusion of Walters after the performances of youngsters Hayden Crozier and debutant Max Duffy last week.

The duo combined for five goals in last Saturday night’s loss to Geelong, while gun forward Hayden Ballantyne has also been in outstanding form this season.

Ballantyne is Fremantle’s leading goal kicker this year with 42 goals, ahead of skipper Matthew Pavlich with 35.

“Yeah we’d play them (all). They’re a real offensive threat with speed,” Lyon said.

“We liked what we saw (on Saturday).”

Creative wingman Tendai Mzungu is also in the frame to return for the Dockers after overcoming the hamstring injury that saw him miss Saturday night’s loss to Geelong.

The Dockers will, however, be without All Australian Luke McPharlin who has succumbed to another calf injury.