West Coast coach Andrew McQualter says returning to familiar roles in the WAFL will be key to unlocking top form for Elijah Hewett and Harry Schoenberg.

Hewett headlines this week’s selection moves, returning to the WAFL after a four-match stint at AFL level largely spent in the forward line.

McQualter said the decision was centred on development and confidence, with the talented 21-year-old Eagle set to resume in his natural midfield role.

“We probably brought him into the team in a role that’s not completely familiar for Elijah,” McQualter said.

“We know how valuable he is for us and our future. His strengths are in the midfield, so we’re going to play him in the WAFL and really build his capacity there.

“Development is not linear. There are ups and downs, and sometimes players need to go find form and confidence in their best roles.”

The versatile and hard-running Jack Hutchinson has been rewarded for his strong WAFL form, earning a recall after impressing across multiple roles.

Hutchinson has overcome ankle surgery in December to regain his place after three matches building match fitness in the state league.

“We really rate ‘Hutchy’s’ ability to play multiple positions,” McQualter said.

“He’s tough, he’s athletic, and he’s an important player to our team.”

Team balance continues to shape selection discussions, with McQualter highlighting the importance of complementing different midfield profiles at AFL level.

“It’s absolutely about team balance,” McQualter said.

“You’ve got to try and complement your players in the right positions. It’s hard (for players) to develop (their games) consistently at AFL level.

“Sometimes it's okay for players to build their craft and build their game at WAFL level, and that can be the most important thing for each individual in the long run.”

The Eagles face a significant challenge this weekend against a Melbourne outfit playing an aggressive, high-tempo style.

McQualter said defensive connection and pressure around the ball would be critical, and was pleased to be able to call up key defender Harry Edwards.

“Harry coming back is a brilliant result for us. We’ve missed him dearly,” McQualter said.

“But a lot of it is to do with pressure on the ball. Melbourne are playing an incredibly aggressive, fast game style, and that poses challenges, but it also provides opportunity.

“If we get our defence right, we think there’ll be opportunity going back the other way.”

Containing Demons star Kysaiah Pickett looms as another major task, with McQualter full of praise for the in-form midfielder-forward.

“Pickett’s an absolute superstar,” McQualter said.

“It will take a whole of team defence. He’s a good player, he’ll have an influence on the game no doubt, we’ve just got to try and curb it.”