Veteran defender Will Schofield has accepted a one-match suspension for headbutting Port Adelaide’s Zak Butters.

He has been ruled out of Saturday’s clash with Sydney at Metricon Stadium, however star backman Jeremy McGovern is on track to return from an ankle injury for the must-win encounter.

McGovern has been sidelined from the past two losses after serving a suspension and then twisting his ankle in a scrimmage against Brisbane’s reserves.

The four-time All Australian was sorely missed as Power big man Charlie Dixon bagged six goals and took seven marks in the Eagles’ 48-point defeat on Saturday.

“He was very close to playing. He pulled up sorer than we had hoped the day before after having a Captain’s Run-type session,” General Manager – Football Craig Vozzo said.

“We didn’t want to take the risk in the lead-up to Thursday’s game (against Richmond) that has been canned.

“But I’d be really hopeful he’ll be ready (to play Sydney on Saturday)."

Schofield’s action was deemed intentional, low impact and high contact by the Match Review Officer and warranted a one-game ban.

Vozzo revealed the Eagles never considered challenging the suspension.

“I think we got fortunate that he just got one game. Will acknowledges that’s not him. That’s not the way he plays or leads, it’s out of character and we put it behind us,” Vozzo said.

“It’s disappointing for them (McGovern and Schofield suspensions) and the effect it has on the group. Adam (Simpson) has pointed out to both of them that’s not how you lead.

“Particularly in their senior positions it’s not good enough and we’ve got to get better.”

In his first game for the club, small forward Jamaine Jones was also offered a $1000 fine for striking Justin Westhoff during the final quarter in an incident labelled as careless, low impact and high contact.