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State side looks to new chums for Sydney

Subiaco duo George Hampson and Lachlan Delahunty, East Fremantle defenders Tom Howlett and Brock O'Brien and tough West Perth forward Kody Manning are in line for State debuts this month.

The five in-form players are among a group of newcomers being considered to take on the North East Australian Football League team in Sydney.

Coach Bill Monaghan and his match committee - chairman of selectors Ross Parker and assistants Craig Smoker, Aidan Parker and Gavin Brown - have several dilemmas as they prepare to finalise the 30-man squad.

They will not learn the make-up of the NEAFL team, comprising the State leagues from Queensland, NSW, ACT and Northern Territory, until much closer to the game on May 24.

And a lack of consistent attacking options in the WAFL this season makes it difficult to identify likely forwards for the match at Spotless Stadium.

East Perth forward Josh Smith has been hampered by an ankle injury, while the league's leading goal kicker, Swan Districts' Ricky Cary, could be overlooked because of a lack of experience.

South Fremantle spearhead Ben Saunders and Perth captain Paul Bevan may be crucial parts of a Black Swans forward line that will be notable for its flexibility rather than its power.

Monaghan could call on Delahunty and Swans tall Tony Notte to mix roles in attack and on the ball. Returning AFL players Ashton Hams, Bradd Dalziell, Kyal Horsley and Haiden Schloithe will be considered for midfield roles alongside State regulars Craig Wulff, Luke Blackwell and Rory O'Brien.

Monaghan relies on Shane Nelson and Luke Tedesco for much of West Perth's drive and their strong impact over several years may be rewarded with their maiden State selections.

Brown, the East Fremantle back-line coach, is likely to have a wide spread of defensive options given that Sharks Howlett, Brock O'Brien, Andrew Stephen and Steven Dodd are in contention, while Swans veterans Tallan Ames and Justin Simpson have made strong cases for inclusion.

Monaghan has scored a coup by recruiting former Test opener Simon Katich, the victorious Perth Scorchers captain this season, who will mirror his Giants role by becoming the WA runner and player mentor.