The Blues look likely to get All Black prop Tony Woodcock back for this week's match against the Bulls but not captain Keven Mealamu.

Blues coach Pat Lam confirmed that his All Black loosehead was "looking good" to make his return from a calf injury against the Lions.

The Blues are in a similar position to the Lions as they are on a losing streak that has lasted seven on the trot while the Lions have lost their last eight.

The Lions lost last week to the Chiefs and have fourteen points - eight of which have come from their two byes.

Woodcock's return will be a welcome boost for the Blues but they will most likely have to do without Skipper Keven Mealamu and Lam says there is concern about whether the hooker will be able to play for the All Blacks in June.

"He's doubtful," said Lam of Mealamu's chances against the Lions and extended it to the All Blacks.

"It's more a case now of making sure we do everything right. We don't want to risk him if he's not quite right. "

"The mind is willing, but it's just making sure the body is there."

Lam will have to change his loose trio for this week's match as Chris Lowrey has been ruled out after he suffered concussion against the Canes.

Winger George Moala is also highly doubtful with groin problems while loose forward Steven Luatua has been called in to the Blues squad for the rest of the season.

"It's obviously a big game for us and what we need to do to get the win," said Lam.

"When you make changes, injury enforced or whatever, it's about getting clarity for the individuals concerned."

Lam said he saw similarities between the Lions and the Blues who are sitting in second last and last place.

"There are a lot of similarities with what they've been going through and what we're going through," Lam told Stuff.

"I suppose it is quite a desperate game for both teams which should make it a challenge.

"They're a good side, particularly in the forward pack, and we respect every team because of where we are. We want to get a win."

The Lions scored all three of their tries against the Chiefs from driving mauls after line outs and Lam admitted that the Blues will have to work on their own line out after they won five of nine on their own throw against the Hurricanes.

"It's just those little things similar to the rest our game."

"At crucial times, when we had opportunities to score, it would be wrong decisions, dropped ball or bad pass. It's all part of it."