Geelong will boost their in-form line-up with the return of Matthew Scarlett and Mathew Stokes for Friday's AFL match against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

Scarlett and Stokes missed the 135-point demolition of West Coast a fortnight ago and the Cats have freshened up with the split-round bye.

Geelong coach Mark Thompson said it was a good exercise for his team to play without Scarlett, the league's best fullback.

Thompson added Scarlett only had a minor hamstring injury and probably could have played against West Coast if needed.

Fifth-placed Adelaide must win to keep pace with the top four and Thompson says his players know they are in for a tough, physical game.