MELBOURNE coach Mark Neeld is eager for his young players to experience the big stage and pressure of the Queen’s Birthday clash against Collingwood at the MCG on Monday.

Speaking at a media conference from AAMI Park on Friday, Neeld highlighted the return of defender Tom McDonald as an example of one emerging Demon who will benefit from the occasion.

“It’s disappointing that James Frawley is out, but great for Tom McDonald to come in and have a crack at [Travis] Cloke on the big stage,” he said

“We view Tom as a 10-year key defender ... it’ll be great for Tom’s development.”

Neeld added that Jack Fitzpatrick, who will be playing his fifth AFL match this round, plus midfielders Michael Evans and Matt Jones, would also learn plenty against the Pies.

“[It’s] good for someone like Jack Fitzpatrick ... [to] play as a key forward and play in the ruck against [Darren] Jolly,” he said.

“[It’s] good for Michael Evans and Matt Jones … there’s no better development than going into the middle and having a crack at [Dane] Swan and [Scott] Pendlebury.”

Neeld also named first-year player’s Dean Kent likely opponent.

“Dean Kent will play, he’ll see some time on Harry O’Brien, it’s the best development that these young boys can get,” he said.

Sam Blease will return to the side after some good form for Casey.

“He’s gone back into the VFL for the last four weeks and been working on the defensive side of his game, which he’s done really well ,” Neeld said.

Despite the external pressure on the club, Neeld said he would not be sacrificing long-term improvement for short-term gain.

“I’m really clear, I’ve got a contract [for] another 18 months and we’ve got long term plans,” he said.

“Negative outside influences shouldn’t impact the way the football club goes about coaching.”