The Swans are finals certainties despite a 45-point loss to Collingwood on the weekend, with Carlton’s win over the Lions and St Kilda’s defeat of Adelaide confirming their spot in the eight.
But with Saturday’s defeat only the latest in a prolonged slump, the side desperately needs to find form. Coach Paul Roos said on Monday the next fortnight would be geared towards week one of the finals.
“We know [the Lions match] doesn't mean anything in terms of getting into the finals,” Roos said. “So we've got to take the opportunity to, if we need, rest some players and help us give it a real good crack the following week.”
“Sometimes one week off doesn't make much difference, but we're like most clubs at this time of the year, we've got players who are sore and tired.
"Saturday night is a chance for some guys to get in some form, some others to get a rest, some young guys to continue their development.
“We look at it as a two week period to get back to the style of footy needed to win in AFL today and get some energy and run back."
O'Loughlin, 31, tore ankle ligaments in the round 16 match against Carlton and has been on a strict physiotherapy program ever since, but Roos said he wanted the star forward to play.
"It seemed a lot more positive in terms of playing this week and we'd certainly like to give him a run this week, obviously if he's healthy."
“We'll see how he goes Tuesday and Thursday nights. He's an important player as he can run and carry the ball but there's no point playing him if he's still a little down on confidence."
