PORT ADELAIDE could be forced into at least one change for its season opener against Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday with defender Jarrod Lienert confirmed to miss the game with a knee injury.

The Power used 23 players in that game, meaning even with Lienert’s absence the club may opt to keep the remaining 22 for this weekend’s game.

Lienert limped off in the second quarter of the Power’s second JLT Community Series game against North Melbourne, with scans confirming a medial ligament strain that requires rest.

Ruckman Paddy Ryder, who suffered a depressed cheekbone in the same game, is expected to start against the Demons and may wear a protective helmet as a precaution.

Defender Dougal Howard could be among any potential replacement for Lienert.

He missed JLT2, with the club’s coaching staff asking him to find form in a SANFL trial game against South Adelaide.

The big man performed well, and was part of a stingy defence which restricted the Panthers to just 41 points for the game.

Trent McKenzie is another who could come into consideration for the Power’s backline.

The defender has impressed in consecutive Magpies trial games, setting up countless defensive rebounds with his booming left foot and booting five goals.

The Power also has plenty of goal scoring options who will be discussed ahead of selection including rookie Tobin Cox, second-year forward Kane Farrell, the electric Aidyn Johnson and big Billy Frampton, who have each shown good signs in the pre-season.

The Power will announce its Round 1 side on Thursday evening.