The Cats could be injected with some much-needed speed and “x-factor” for their clash with Carlton on Saturday night, as Nakia Cockatoo and Brandan Parfitt firm to make their return.

Cockatoo injured his hamstring more than a month ago against West Coast in round 13, while Parfitt missed nine games with a high grade hamstring strain before returning in round 17 against Hawthorn. The 19-year-old was then left out of Geelong’s side to face Adelaide last week with hamstring soreness.

Speaking on this week’s GHMBA Health Report, head physio Mark Young said both will be tested this week.

“Nakia and Brandan, they both ran fast and comfortably today. They’ve been training with the boys for a couple of weeks,” Young said.

“They’ll both be tests this weekend. The signs are good.”

Defender Tom Ruggles is also a chance to make his return to football after suffering a shoulder injury earlier this year.

“Tom Ruggles had surgery on his AC joint a few weeks ago. He’s been working through contact and football training now,” Young said. 

“He’s looking good. He’s also a test.”