Helping those around him get better has narrowed Matt Flynn’s focus as he strives to string AFL matches together.

The West Coast ruck impressed on his return to the side against Essendon on Good Friday, going toe-to-toe with Sam Draper before the big Bomber was injured.

Recalled for the first time since round one, Flynn was competitive in the ruck and around the ground with 19 disposals and seven marks, bringing his excellent WAFL form to the senior level.

Locked in a weekly selection battle for the No.1 ruck role with Bailey Williams, the 27-year-old is searching for consistency, honing his craft and making the jobs of West Coast’s midfielders easier.

“I’m not the finished product at all. I’m trying to help the guys around me, trying to make other people better,” Flynn said.

“I think that’s the impact I can have and if I can make them better then I’m pretty happy with that aspect of my game.

“There has been a lot of change (to our midfield), not only in the last six or seven weeks, but in the last 24 months or 12 months really.

“We’ve lost a lot of experience but a lot of youth have come through.

“We’re still building that connection. As a midfield unit we’re still learning about each other.

“I think the more we play together and the more we connect off the field the better that will be.”

Flynn could be set for a duel against man mountain Lloyd Meek on Sunday at Marvel Stadium as the Eagles head east for a huge challenge against Hawthorn.

“He’s been really good this year, Lloyd. It’ll be tough match up if I get picked this week,” Flynn said.

“But like on the weekend or any games I’ve played previously I’ll try to put my best foot forward, compete hard and try to make the game easier for my midfielders.”

One of the shining lights from the engine room against Essendon was Elijah Hewett, whose electric second half lit up Optus Stadium.

Hewett, who missed all of last year with feet issues, racked up 22 disposals, with 12 contested possessions and two goals following a slow start.

“He’s exciting, isn’t he? He’s quick, he adds something a lot of players can’t add,” Flynn said.

“He’s got some sharp feet, some really good skills and he’s got some swagger about him as well.

“He’s an exciting player and I can’t wait to see what he does going forward.”

The Eagles are hopeful co-captain Oscar Allen will be available to return this Sunday, with the spearhead training strongly on Monday before training indoors on Tuesday.

Allen was managed from the Bombers clash and given time to refresh away from the club.

“Oscar was managed after a bit of travel and what not, and his body at times hasn’t been the best for him, so he got away from the club for a few days and spent some time with his family over the Easter long weekend,” Flynn said.

“I think it was really well received by the boys, you saw we played on the weekend and we love 'Oz' as much as anyone else, so it’ll be exciting to have him back out there whenever he’s back.”