AFL.com.au's Michael Whiting explores the potential replacements for Darcy Gardiner.

It's hard to change a winning team, but Chris Fagan needs someone to step in for Darcy Gardiner against Geelong on Saturday night after the rugged defender's elbow injury.

Liam Dawson has been excellent in the NEAFL of late, while Ben Keays starred on Saturday with 34 touches and four goals.

Perhaps Lions Academy graduate Jacob Allison could make his debut after his 30 disposals and a goal at the weekend?

Fagan could also look at Josh Schache or Michael Close as another forward line option. 

Geelong looks likely to have a few changes, writes AFL.com.au's Ben Guthrie. 

Geelong is set to welcome back skipper Joel Selwood and forward Daniel Menzel for its clash against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday night. Selwood was listed to play against the Giants last weekend, after being knocked out against the Dockers, but was withdrawn hours before the game based on the club's medical staff's advice. Menzel was sore in the knee in the warm-up and the club took a cautious approach given his injury history.

Talented youngster Brandan Parfitt is also in the frame to return after an impressive performance in his comeback game via the VFL. Parfitt, playing his first match since April, gathered 26 disposals and laid 10 tackles. 

Scott Selwood is also a chance to return after missing the Giants clash with a hamstring problem. 

Nakia Cockatoo may also be recalled after battling a niggling hamstring issue, and has made the trip to the Gold Coast for the club's week of training ahead of the match against the Lions.