Adam Goodes believes the Sydney Swans are refinding their old ruthless form

ADAM Goodes believes Sydney have returned to the ruthless form that saw them rated as AFL premiership contenders in the early part of the season.

Adam Goodes

ADAM Goodes believes Sydney have returned to the ruthless form that saw them rated as AFL premiership contenders in the early part of the season.

The Swans won their first five games to be one of the form sides before losing three of their next four, including an abysmal 28-point loss to St Kilda in round nine.

But co-captain Goodes said the Swans' 92-point hammering of the Western Bulldogs last week, which included a 9.0 to 1.1 first quarter, signalled a return to the club's best.

"That first quarter was a result of the emphasis that we put on the players that what we turned in against St Kilda was unacceptable and very un-Swans-like," Goodes said.

"Credit to the players, what they showed in that first quarter on Sunday was that they wanted to make amends. We are really proud of that effort."

Goodes, who hasn't played since suffering a quadriceps injury in round six against Adelaide, said the Swans had another chance to prove their premiership credentials against Essendon at Etihad Stadium this weekend.

"What I have said to the playing group is that we can't be a team that is like a yo-yo, that puts in a performance like that on our home deck and then travels and puts in a disappointing effort," Goodes said.

Goodes said he is certain to return after the bye for the Swans' round 13 match against premiers Geelong at the SCG.

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