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GWS skipper Stephen Coniglio will play his first AFL match since round three when the Giants take on New South Wales rivals Sydney in Ballarat.

GWS coach Leon Cameron says he doesn't expect miracles from Stephen Coniglio when the Giants' captain returns to AFL duties in Saturday's derby against Sydney in Ballarat.

The 27-year-old midfielder had 35 disposals and seven tackles in his second game back at VFL level last week, following a long absence with an ankle injury.

Coniglio's return is timely, with Lachie Whitfield (concussion) and Shane Mumford (back) set to miss the Swans clash as GWS seek to break back into the top eight.

But Cameron will temper his expectations of Coniglio, with the skipper to play a hybrid midfield-forward role.

"It's a fair jump (from VFL level), so we don't expect miracles," Cameron said.

"We don't expect him to be absolutely flying, but we've made that call that he's fit enough and he's ready for AFL footy.

"He's had two games back and we think he's ready to go.

"There's going to be some rustiness, there's going to be some nerves, but that's like any player coming back from long-term (injury)."

Coniglio's injury nightmare this year has come after he was dropped from the Giants' team during his first season as club captain.

He hurt the ankle in a loss to Melbourne in round three as GWS endured a 0-3 start to the campaign.

"It's been a long 14 weeks out of footy and it's been really tough for him because clearly he wants to get out on the park and let his footy do the talking," Cameron said.

Whitfield was diagnosed with concussion after a head knock in last week's shock one-point loss to Gold Coast and will miss at least one match.

Mumford had 53 hit-outs against the Suns but could miss the next two or three weeks as the Giants manage the 35-year-old's workload.

"His back has really locked up and that's what we've got - he can only play a week or two here and there," Cameron said.

Cameron will turn to one or both of Matt Flynn and Kieren Briggs, who have provided support for the veteran this season.