HAWTHORN will likely make at least two changes for Saturday’s clash with Fremantle at Aurora Stadium.

Premiership stars James Frawley (concussion) and Sam Mitchell (corked calf) are expected to be available, after missing the Hawks’ Round 7 win against Richmond.

But the two players who came into the side in their absence – debutant defender Kaiden Brand and second-game midfielder Kieran Lovell – were solid performers against the Tigers, putting their hand up for another AFL opportunity.

It’s bound to be a tough week at the selection table, after a strong team performance – and an injury-free one – against the Tigers.

At VFL level, the Box Hill Hawks had a bye, but there have been plenty of strong contributors in recent weeks.

Defender Angus Litherland and utility Dallas Willsmore were the Hawks’ remaining two emergencies last week, after Lovell was a late inclusion for Mitchell.

Willsmore has a month of strong VFL football to his name – averaging 27 disposals per match - while Litherland impressed on his return from senior duty.

Swingman Ryan Schoenmakers is still a week or two away with a groin injury, as is midfielder Jonathan O’Rourke with a hamstring injury.

Among the Hawks’ other impressive performers at VFL level in recent weeks have been utility Brendan Whitecross, draftee forward Blake Hardwick and yet-to-debut defender Teia Miles.

Key position players Matt Spangher and Jack Fitzpatrick have a couple of games under their belts, after returning from calf and knee injuries respectively.