Nathan Vardy is expecting to cop a few sledges from his former teammates if he gets the nod to line up for West Coast against Geelong at Domain Stadium on Thursday night.

Although the ruckman/forward has played in each of the Eagles’ 11 games so far this season, Vardy is under pressure to hold his spot due to the return of Drew Petrie and Scott Lycett.

But that hasn’t stopped the 25-year-old from thinking about the upcoming clash with the Cats.

“I dare say there will be a bit of banter, but that’s just how it works. I’m happy to give a little bit myself,” Vardy told The West Australian.

Vardy spent seven seasons with the Cats but was restricted to just 25 AFL games by a range of injury problems.

But having been traded to West Coast at the end of last season, his body has finally enabled him to be the player he previously threatened to be.

“It’s great to get some continuity and it would be nice if we could win some more games,” Vardy said.

“Body-wise I’m fine. I hurt my elbow a few weeks ago and that’s going to be strapped for the rest of the year, but it won’t need surgery. It’s just about keeping on top of it.”