Port Adelaide’s Round 9 selection decisions will be influenced by the outcome of Junior Rioli’s AFL tribunal hearing, while Kane Farrell could be poised for a return to football.

Rioli will face the tribunal on Wednesday afternoon, following an incident occurring during Sunday’s win over Essendon.

Assistant coach Chad Cornes stated on Tuesday that small forward Francis Evans would be the ‘logical’ choice to replace Rioli if required, with the 21-year-old impressing coaches when given opportunities at the top level this season.

Evans was the tactical substitute last weekend, taking the place of captain Tom Jonas who departed the ground after copping a heavy knock to the sternum.

Defender Farrell underwent surgery to repair a cheekbone fracture from Round 6, but he has since been back in full training and could be in contention for Saturday’s North Melbourne clash.

Standout performances in the SANFL from seasoned backman Tom Clurey and young midfielder Hugh Jackson may also put both players into the conversation.

Clurey maintained composure in the Magpies’ thrilling seven-point win over Norwood, while second-year player Jackson has been impressing through the midfield, working hard to prove himself worthy of an AFL debut.

Experienced campaigner Trent Dumont is also on the radar, with the 27-year-old midfielder held back from the SANFL last weekend to serve as an AFL emergency.

A consistent competitor at state-league level this season, Dumont is averaging 7.8 tackles and 21.8 disposals at 75 per cent efficiency.

Port Adelaide will name its side for Saturday’s Round 9 match against the Kangaroos at Blundstone Arena on Thursday evening at 5:50pm ACST.