GEELONG coach Chris Scott expects Joel Selwood to play on Easter Monday against Hawthorn as his recovery from a foot injury gathers pace.

The 27-year-old had minor foot surgery in January to repair a tendon in his left foot that was unrelated to the plantar fasciitis he battled in his right foot.

Selwood is not expected to play in the NAB Challenge but the Cats are confident they can map out a program that will have him available to play in the opening round.

Scott told AFL.com.au he thinks the Cats' champion will play round one but it might take him some time to be at his absolute best.

He drew confidence from the fact Selwood had shown his ability to perform in all circumstances and played well at the start of last season despite an interrupted pre-season. 

"He is running hard. Missing the football stuff is a problem if you haven't played much footy in my view," Scott said.

"You definitely need enough of it to be ready but he is running fit and has a solid body of work behind him."

Scott said Selwood was still a good player even if he was underdone and he was likely to spend some time forward early in the season.

The Cats expect new recruit Patrick Dangerfield to play his first game in Cats' colours on Friday night against Collingwood at Simonds Stadium. 

Harry Taylor is expected to lead the team in Friday night's game.