Goodes has not been in the Roosters senior line-up since round five on May 6, when he injured his knee in the win over Casey Scorpions.

That put North Ballarat on top with four wins, but also put Goodes' promising season on hold.

The hard-working midfielder and onballer returns after proving his fitness in the reserves.

Roosters coach Gavin Crosisca has made a habit of easing players back after injury and he is likely to do the same with Goodes, who has been named on interchange for Sunday's vital clash with Bendigo Bombers in Bendigo.

Goodes was a vital cog early in the year - his work being instrumental in North's flying start.

In his absence the Roosters have had just one win in seven matches.

Goodes covers the loss of youngster Andrew Swallow, who has been recalled by the Kangaroos for what will be his fourth AFL match.Although Swallow was named on an extended interchange last night, the word from Arden Street is that he will play with the 'Roos.

Leigh Harding, Ben Schwarze, Sav Rocca and David Trotter are others on the North Ballarat list on the Kangaroos' interchange.

Harding, Schwarze and Rocca all played in the win over Essendon a week ago. Trotter has played two AFL games this year.

The greatest interest will be to see whether Kangaroos coach Dean Laidley retains Rocca.

Laidley indicated yesterday that Rocca, who was equal third on the VFL goalkicking list with 33 in seven games, was "certainly in the mix".

However, that was as far as he would go. Rocca is on 96 games in Kangaroos' colours, but Laidley said he could not guarantee the key forward the chance to reach the milestone.

Meanwhile, Bendigo has gained the experienced Dean Solomon and Chris Heffernan as well as former North Ballarat Rebels ruckman Tristan Cartledge - all dropped by the hapless Essendon as Kevin Sheedy wielded the axe.

Bendigo will be without the promoted Dean Peverill, Andrew Lovett and Paddy Ryder.