Dual Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe is set to return to competitive action this week but is no certainty to play in Fremantle’s blockbuster clash with Brisbane.

The Dockers skipper hasn’t played a game at any level this season after shoulder surgery last year, while his team motors to a 8-3 start in 2022, including ending reigning premiers Melbourne’s 17-game winning streak last Saturday.

Fyfe has been suffering what his coach Justin Longmuir describes as “multiple little niggles” during his recovery, the latest being back problems.

He could return in the Dockers’ clash with fellow top-four side Brisbane at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

6PR sports broadcaster Paddy Sweeney says there is also a chance Fyfe returns through the WAFL, with Fremantle’s affiliate club Peel playing against Subiaco on Saturday.

“My understanding is the preference and the way it’s tracking is he’ll come back through the WAFL this weekend,” Sweeney told Gareth Parker on 6PR Breakfast.

Press PLAY to get the inside work on Fyfe’s return from Paddy Sweeney