On Thursday, Crows captain Nathan van Berlo vowed his team would respond to Craig's resignation with a passionate performance against the Power.

Thomas, regarded as one of the toughest players at Alberton, denied his team had spoken about Adelaide's predicament in the lead-up to the twilight clash, saying Port Adelaide would focus on its own physical approach.

"We can't control what the Crows do," Thomas said on Thursday.

"We haven't talked about them at all. For us, it's normal and this week has been all about us, and focusing on what we can do for the Showdown.

"The tone of the week has been physical.

"We always are [physical] towards the Showdown and I don't think that will change. "

The Power have included Justin Westhoff, Matthew Broadbent and Daniel Stewart in an extended squad to play Adelaide, with the team to be finalised after training on Friday morning.

Veteran Chad Cornes, who replaced the injured Westhoff in the team three weeks ago, has displayed good form and is tipped to retain his place in spite of the tall forward's return.

Cornes, 31, has been limited to only seven games this season as part of the club's youth policy and, while it hasn't been confirmed, it's expected Showdown XXXI will be his last.

The passionate utility has earned a reputation as a Showdown 'specialist', having saved some of his best performances for games against the Crows.

He's played in more Showdowns (23) than any other player at Port Adelaide, and Thomas was confident the dual All-Australian would have an impact on Sunday.

"You can see his emotion and that is right up there for a Showdown," Thomas said.

"We talk all the time about him being a spiritual leader. He does that week in and week out and his emotion and passion to the game is second to none.

"It's great for our young guys for him to be able to do that."

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