Fremantle have sprung a selection surprise, recalling small forward Hayden Ballantyne for Sunday’s must-win AFL game against the Western Bulldogs.

As the Dockers hard nut returns for his first senior game since round one, Geelong midfielder Scott Selwood will also play his first AFL game this season.

Selwood has made the 22 for the game against Sydney at the SCG as the Cats try to iron out their post-bye form wobble.

The Dockers and Bulldogs are on eight wins apiece heading into the Marvel Stadium clash and the loser can probably forget about finals.

Injuries and form have sidelined Ballantyne since the season opener, but he is among three Fremantle inclusions.

Captain Nat Fyfe and small forward Lachlan Schultz also return, with Sam Switkowksi, Ethan Hughes and Cam McCarthy dropped.

The Bulldogs will welcome back ironman defender Dale Morris and Rhylee West, the son of club great Scott West, makes his debut.

Ed Richards also returns as Matt Suckling (back), Josh Schache (concussion) and Roarke Smith make way.

The Cats have also recalled Jack Henry and replaced ruckman Rhys Stanley with Zac Smith.

Selwood has endured an injury-plagued four seasons at the Cats and his last AFL game was in the elimination final loss to Melbourne last year.

Former Swan Gary Rohan and Zach Tuohy are major omissions, with Geelong saying they are being managed.

Sydney’s Jordan Dawson will return from suspension and replaces Will Hayward (hip).

Essendon made three changes for their away game against Gold Coast, recalling Zac Clarke, Jayden Laverde and Ben McNiece.

Conor McKenna has returned to Ireland for his brother’s wedding, while captain Dyson Heppell misses another game with his ongoing foot problem and Michael Hartley was dropped.

Will Brodie (hamstring) is a major loss for the Suns, who also dropped Charlie Ballard as Lachie Weller and Anthony Miles were recalled.