The ruckman was named in seniors for Saturday's away game against Lavington, but played the earlier match, where he wasn't named in the best.

"His form hasn't been where it needed to be and 'Gatto' knows that and we're working with him in areas he needs to get better," coach Daryn Cresswell said.

'He took it on the chin, it sets a really strong example to the rest of the players that no one is safe and you've got to play your role.

"His endeavour at training and willingness to get better at training has been really strong."

Gaston, who turns 31 next week, has had a brutal run with injury, taking 11 seasons to play his 150^th game in 2017.

His standing at the club was reflected though when quizzed about rejecting a host of offers from district and Goulburn Valley clubs over the years.

"But I always wanted to play at Rovers and get us to where we want to be, because it means more to you if you can get success," he said in April, 2017.

Gaston played only seven games last year after suffering a shoulder injury and has struggled at times this season to mark the ball, although his determination could never be questioned.

The stalwart is also paying the price for the rapid development of talented duo Will Christie and Ed Dayman.

The latter won the league's under 18 medal last year and after a slow start at senior level, has blossomed in recent weeks.

"I think Will is a fantastic option for us in the ruck as well," Cresswell said.

"We'll sit back and reflect on (Wodonga) Raiders and see which one we play (out of Christie and Gaston)."

The league has a general bye this weekend, with Raiders and Rovers set to play a virtual elimination final on July 20.