Sewell has the distinction of playing in two for Hawthorn in 2008 and 2013.

Brown was a key defender in the Magpies’ victory in 2010.

Right now, though, this counts for little with each with a battle on his hands to force his way out of the VFL and back into the big time.

A recall could come for each as early as this week, but there are no guarantees.

Sewell’s battle stems from his body letting him down, with two hamstring issues meaning he has not played with the Hawthorn senior side yet.

The openings are there in the midfield, with Sam Mitchell and Cyril Rioli sidelined.

Sewell made his return from his latest stint on the sidelines with an impressive hit-out with Box Hill Hawks in the VFL.

He had 22 disposals and made nine tackles.

Hawthorn development academy co-ordinator coach Damian Caroll was impressed.

“He played really well,” Caroll said in his match review on Hawthorn’s website.

“He played 80 per cent of game time, it was a good hit-out for him. From a running point of view, his GPS results were comparable to what they are at AFL level, so we were happy with his ground coverage on the day.

“We were really happy with his contested ball work in close and around stoppages and his ball use was really good too.”

But did Sewell do enough to force his way back for a top-of-the-table clash with Port Adelaide?

A similar question can be asked about Brown.

Fitness has not been an issue for Brown.

Although he was initially forced out of the Collingwood line-up with a shoulder injury, Brown has been fit for several weeks.

He has played four games in a row with the Magpies in the VFL, unable to force his way back.

Surely, if he is to get the nod before Ben Reid returns in a few weeks, this week must be it after Collingwood’s defence was shown up by Adelaide.

Collingwood’s VFL report stated: “A really strong defensive effort. His body positioning was really sharp and his intercept marking was also positive. His leadership and attitude amongst the group was excellent.”

Like Sewell, all Brown can do is wait and hope.

david.brehaut@fairfaxmedia.com.au