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Shayne Hope

Franklin set to spearhead Swans against Fremantle

Lance Franklin looks set for his last AFL appearance in his home state against Fremantle in Perth. (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Sydney superstar Lance Franklin is on track to feature against Fremantle in what could be the champion goalkicker's final AFL match in his home state of Western Australia.

Franklin has struggled to find continuity in what is likely the last season of his decorated career, hampered mostly by a persistent knee issue.

But coach John Longmire expects the 36-year-old will play at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.

If so, it will be the first time in two months Franklin has played in three consecutive weeks.

The 352-game veteran's cause has been helped by the Swans' nine-day break between matches after their nailbiting win over the Western Bulldogs last round.

"It gives us an extra few days' break, which is important," Longmire told reporters on Monday.

'If it was a six-day break then the situation would probably be a bit different.

"He actually trained today and trained pretty well, so that's a good sign.

"If he does what he needs to do on Wednesday, and pulls up OK from today's session, he'll be in line to play on the weekend.

"We can't give any guarantees until we get to the game, but so far he looks OK."

Originally from WAFL club Perth, Franklin has a superb record at Optus Stadium, where he kicked eight goals against West Coast in the venue's first AFL match in 2018.

The record was equalled by former Eagles spearhead Josh Kennedy last year and only passed by Carlton's Charlie Curnow (nine) this season.

Franklin also kicked six goals against Fremantle at Optus in 2021 and has 15 from three appearances there.

Chad Warner could also be fit to face the Dockers this week after missing three matches with a calf strain.

The tough midfielder's return would be a huge boost for Sydney as they seek to continue a late-season push towards the top eight.

Longmire said Angus Sheldrick was "touch and go" to play again this season after undergoing ankle surgery last week, while Lewis Melican will miss multiple games with a hamstring injury.

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