Roughead, a former Hawks captain who has won four premierships and booted 572 goals in 282 games, hasn't been seen at the top level since his club's round 14 loss to Sydney.

The 32-year-old key forward has struggled for form recently, averaging just 12.1 disposals, 3.3 marks and 1.3 goals from his seven games in 2019.

And while Harvey recognised AFL games should never be "given away", he said Roughead's contributions to Hawthorn during their period of incredible success meant he "deserved" a swan song.

The North Melbourne legend said farewell matches were also good for club morale.

"I think he qualifies in every category," Harvey told RSN 927AM.

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson opted to hand a debut to 20-year-old defender Changkuoth Jiath against GWS in Canberra on Friday, leaving Roughead with two more opportunities before he retires at season's end.

But with the Hawks, currently 12th and effectively out of finals contention, up against the last-placed Gold Coast Suns at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne next week, Harvey believes Roughhead will get his chance.

Clarkson himself was cagey when asked about his former skipper's potential return.

"We'd like to think Roughy would play again for us, but whether that's next week or not, we've got to wait and see," he said.

"We're not opposed to it, but nor are we making declarations right now that it's going to happen either."

Australian Associated Press