Adam Simpson is under no illusions about the challenge looming at Optus Stadium this Saturday night, with the West Coast coach rating Port Adelaide arguably the best side in the competition.

The Power sat atop the ladder for the entire season last year and are back leading the League after two rounds.

Ken Hinkley’s side will pose another sizeable test for the Eagles, who are determined to get back on the winners list following a thrilling seven-point defeat to another top-four contender in the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium last round.

“I’d say if they’re (Port Adelaide) not number one they’re pretty close,” Simpson said.

“Their brand stands up. It’s been really strong for a long time now and they’ve got good kids coming through, so massive challenge again this week, doesn’t stop.”

The Eagles and Power have played some epic clashes in recent years – including the extra-time elimination final thriller in 2017 – but Port has held the advantage in the past two meetings.

Ken Hinkley’s side claimed a 42-point victory at Optus Stadium in 2019, and won by 48 last time the teams met at Metricon Stadium in round four last year, with powerhouse Charlie Dixon bagging six goals.

“He went nuts all last year. I think they’re looking and finding more avenues now rather than just relying on that, but he’s obviously one of the best key forwards in the comp,” Simpson said.

“Our backs need to be at their best this week, absolutely.

“Their high half-forwards are a really damaging one as well. Their speed and repeat efforts are really high-end.

“They’re a pretty good side.

“We can’t wait. Hopefully we get a full house. Two pretty good sides going at it.”

Simpson expected skipper Luke Shuey (hamstring) to be available for his first game this season on managed minutes, provided he gets through Wednesday night’s main training session under lights at Optus Stadium.

Young tall Oscar Allen (shoulder) will be given a light week on the track but should take his place, while midfield bull Elliot Yeo (groin) is facing an important fortnight as he ramps up his training loads.

“If he can get through the next two weeks I think we’ll see him training fully by then,” Simpson said.

“He’s frustrated. It’s hard to stay connected to your teammates. The way ‘Yeoy’ leads, he leads by action, and we’ve missed him. It’s been a while, but he’s not the first go through it.

“It’s probably a four or five-week build, but I’d say he’s already into that.

“It starts with your running program, then you transition into skills, then you see how you recover, then you repeat, then you do more skills and hopefully some minutes of footy.”