Sydney Swans senior coach Dean Cox has confirmed one change for Thursday night's blockbuster against Fremantle, with Tom Papley named to make his long-awaited return.

Papley, who has been sidelined with a calf strain for six weeks, will be a welcome addition to the red and white having not featured in the AFL since Round 11.

He will replace Corey Warner in the team's only change following their impressive 35-point victory over the Bulldogs.

Cox says Papley has done everything he can to return after a diligent rehabilitation period, and is primed to face the ladder-leaders at Optus Stadium.

"Papley will play, he's done everything we've asked him to do for the last couple of weeks, he's done a huge amount of volume of training and he's ready to go, which is exciting."

The Swans will have the ultimate litmus test against the best team in the competition, although they will be brimming with confidence following their win in Round 17.

It was one of the side's best performances of the season, having struggled in recent weeks to produce a complete four-quarter performance.

With Fremantle looking to bounce back after their defeat to GWS in Round 17, Cox insists his side will not rest on their laurels and are embracing the challenge.

"We expect them to be on show tomorrow night, and that's our opportunity to try and nullify them as much as possible," Cox said.

"It's an amazing battle to be a part of. Two teams that are in good form get to do it in front of 60,000 people.
 
"Our players are really excited to get an opportunity to come over and take on the best team. We can't wait for it."
 

There are countless eye-watering match ups, and mentioned the exciting prospect of Brodie Grundy facing off against in-form ruck duo Luke Jackson and Sean Darcy

"Yeah, obviously, what Brodie's been able to do for the duration of the year has been really impressive," Cox said.

"I think he gets a huge challenge, firstly against Luke who has been one of the form players in the competition, not just Ruckman, so I think Brodie and his (1:30) vibe is really important, that's what makes him really strong."

The match will see Jake Lloyd become an AFL Life Member when he plays his 300th official game tomorrow night, which includes 287 premiership games, 11 pre-season games, and one representative game for Victoria in 2020.

The Swans will also don their 2026 Marn Grook guernsey in celebration of National NAIDOC Week.

Fremantle v Sydney Swans

Round 18 •

Optus Stadium, Perth • WA