Despite recognising his ability to play on many different types of players, West Coast Eagles senior coach John Worsfold says Will Schofield is still better suited to playing on tall players.

On Monday, Schofield said his biggest strength was being able to play on both tall and small opponents, citing his experiences playing on Aaron Sandilands and Michael Walters.

Worsfold said the Eagles’ extensive injury list is having an impact on the role he played.

“In an ideal world, he would play a similar role for us every week, but with some of our ins and outs this year, he has had to shuffle between playing on two types of opponents,” he said.

“I still think he is better suited to taller players, but he has been able to effectively play his role otherwise.”

“It doesn’t tie us down to get specific match-ups all the time.”

Speaking at a joint press conference with Fremantle senior coach Ross Lyon ahead of this week’s Carlton Mid Derby, Worsfold praised Schofield for pushing forward and attacking.

Schofield kicked an important goal in the Eagles six-point win over Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, but Worsfold said it was not planned.

“If you can receive the footy in space and run, then go for it,” he said.

“But it only opens up fairly rarely for players, but he (Schofield) has been able to grab a few of those opportunities.”

This week’s Carlton Mid Derby is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested, with Fremantle pushing for a top four finish, while the Eagles will aim to stay in touch with the eight.

West Coast is expected to regain a number of big name players, including Sharrod Wellingham, Daniel Kerr and Luke Shuey, however, Worsfold admitted they still had to prove their fitness before they were named in the squad.