Salmi played for the Baggies in their drawn match with Natimuk United before the bye in what was meant to be a one-off match.

The 21-year-old was set to play for Victorian Amateur Football Association team Prahran Assumption in Melbourne but will stay at his home club.

Swifts coach Scott Carey said it is a big boost for his side to retain the services of Salmi.

“Zach will be a bit of an x-factor for us,” Carey said.

“He is a big body which is something we have lacked a bit.

“He can kick big goals down forward as well as take control in the midfield so we are pleased to have his services with us for the year.

“He had a great first game back last week and we expect him to continue that on.”

Salmi recently returned from a stint at an American college, playing as a punter on Central Methodist University’s football team.

“It is my junior club and close to home so I am really happy to be playing with Swifts this year,” Salmi said.

Swifts’ side will look slightly different in this weekend’s game against Noradjuha-Quantong with Zac Armer out with a season-ending knee injury.

Blake Swain is a possible inclusion to the side, returning from injury.

Carey said junior players are also likely to be given a chance against the Bombers this weekend.

“A couple of juniors are just about ready to have a crack so we might swing a few of them in,” he said.