New West Coast coach Andrew McQualter will consider shifting Oscar Allen into defence - and Harley Reid might be there to keep the star forward company.
The Eagles are bracing to be without Jeremy McGovern for a certain period after the five-time All-Australian injured his groin in the third quarter of Sunday's 38-point loss to Fremantle.
With Tom Barrass (Hawthorn) no longer at the club and McGovern injured, West Coast are short of options when it comes to key defenders.
Harry Edwards will lead the defence in Sunday's away clash with GWS, while the 191cm Reuben Ginbey will again be asked to play above his weight division.
Allen is a star forward of the competition, but he has been starved of supply this year on the way to kicking just three goals across the first three rounds.
Against Fremantle on Sunday, Allen had just one possession in the first half, and he was shifted into defence for several stints after that on the way to four disposals for the match.
McQualter says he will consider playing Allen in defence against GWS, who boast the likes of Jesse Hogan and Jake Stringer in attack.
"We spoke to Oscar about that at the very start of pre-season," McQualter said.
"We knew we were slightly thin with key backs, but he's played a little bit of key back in his career as well.
"So it's an option, and we'll just have to see where it goes with match-ups and who we're playing."
Reid tallied just seven disposals in the first half against Fremantle, but he looked to have more spark late in the game when he was moved to half-back.
"He was getting some attention from (Matthew) Johnson, so we just thought at that time the game needed something different," McQualter said.
"I think we did see something that we liked.
"He's played half back in his career, early on, and as a junior at times as well.
"So I think if we can add another string to his bow, he can become a pretty dangerous player down there."
Reid has been heavily criticised this year for his drop in form and engaging in too many scuffles with opponents.
The injury-enforced absence of Elliot Yeo has left Reid more exposed, and McQualter is trying his best to ensure the 19-year-old doesn't burn out.
"Not many young players play AFL midfield straight away. It's a hard task," McQualter said.
"Most midfielders are really senior guys that have been playing it for a long time.
"So I think with all players, Harley included, we want to be able to be flexible and play multiple roles.
"I think it's something we'll keep exploring."
West Coast lost the inside 50m count 65-37 against Fremantle, leaving Allen bereft of supply.
The midfield is also a huge concern for West Coast after they were hammered 40-25 at the clearances.
