The Sydney Swans are set to return to the SCG in Round 16 after a bye and two games on the road. Ahead of the clash with the Western Bulldogs, senior coach Dean Cox has named his side making two changes. 

Speaking to Sydney Swans Media, Cox announced that Joel Amartey was ruled out of the Friday night clash after sustaining an injury in training this week, while 2024 draftee Riley Bice has been omitted. 

"Joel's hamstring pulled up a little but tight so unfortunately, a six day break becomes a little bit too close and we can't risk it," Cox shared. 

Replacing the pair are defender Jake Lloyd and midfielder Oliver Florent. The experienced duo helped lead Sydney's VFL side to a thrilling 44-point comeback to defeat the Southport Sharks last Saturday. 

"That's a testament to their character, their attitude. They went back with and then their performances from that. You know, it's not ideal being in and out of form throughout a footy season but they responded really well, like expected ,and looking forward to a big Friday night."

Errol Gulden has been named in the centre after a strong comeback from injury in Round 15. The fan favourite midfielder played his first match of the 2025 season, recording 18 disposals and five tackles. Meanwhile Tom Papley is expected to start in the forward line after his long-awaited comeback from injury. 

Round 16 will coincide with celebration for Chad Warner's 100th career game. The explosive midfielder was drafted with pick 39 in the 2019 AFL Draft before making his debut in Round 6 of the 2020 season. In April, Warner excited supporters when re-signed to the club on a two-year contract extension. 

Friday night's clash will prove to be important for both sides as the Swans look to secure a third consecutive win, while the Western Bulldogs look re-claim a position in the top eight. 

"They're a phenomenal football team. You know, really high attacking. They play the game in their front half the most out of any team in the competition," Cox shared.

"Their contest and clearance work has been for a decade but still is one of the top couple in the competition so we're going to make sure that we can try and even out that and get some ascendancy there to get the game in our front half and not dig it out of our back half."

Tickets are still available for our last home game under lights. Don't miss out on a massive Friday night of footy by securing a seat HERE.