Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has backed two of his assistants as contenders for the vacant Carlton job while preparing for a clash with an unpredictable opponent.

For the second time in as many years, the Bulldogs will confront an opposition in their first game under a new caretaker coach, when Josh Fraser leads the Blues at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.

Fraser's appointment by Carlton in the temporary role follows Michael Voss' departure this week after almost four-and-a-half seasons in charge.

AFL premiership coaches Adam Simpson and John Longmire could be considered as full-time replacements, likewise experienced pair Nathan Buckley and Ken Hinkley.

But ex-Bulldogs assistant Steven King has enjoyed a successful start to life as Melbourne coach this season and Beveridge believes several other former and current members of his staff could follow suit.

The 2016 flag-winning coach said assistants Daniel Giansiracusa (Hawthorn), Ash Hansen (Carlton), Brendon Lade and Daniel Pratt (both Bulldogs) are all capable of stepping up.

"Over the journey we've had assistant coaches come and go, whether it's Daniel Giansiracusa, Steven King's just got a job at Melbourne, Ash Hansen's already at Carlton - all those guys are ready for a chance," Beveridge said.

"Brendan Lade is right up there and he's done all the yards. He's a big, friendly giant, he's as capable and as ready as anyone, and Pratty's in that boat as well.

"I'd give them glowing references if I was asked the question (but I) don't want to put the noses out of joint of the Carlton establishment or pick their coach.

"But if they make the call, I'd definitely be in those guys' corner."

Geelong's James Kelly, Fremantle's Jaymie Graham and Collingwood's Hayden Skipworth are other highly-rated assistants who could be considered.

Beveridge said he had reached out to offer his best wishes to Voss, who officially left the Blues on Tuesday.

"It's always sad when a coach finishes up in these circumstances," Beveridge said.

"He's been unbelievably stoic and as a man representing his football club and his family and his friends, he's just been extremely resilient and I've admired the way he's gone about it.

"I know that his next move, whether it's in footy or elsewhere, will be extremely rewarding for him."

The Bulldogs beat Melbourne by just six points immediately after Simon Goodwin was sacked last year and are unsure what to expect from Carlton, who are on an eight-game losing streak.

"We can't do anything about their revs and how they motivate themselves going into this game," Beveridge said.

"Whether they do anything differently - that will be the thing that will be intriguing."