IN - Bayley Fritsch
OUT - Bailey Laurie (omitted)
MELBOURNE sharpshooter Bayley Fritsch will return for the club’s Gather Round fixture with Essendon, cleared to play after one week on the sidelines with foot soreness.
>>FULL TEAM LISTED BELOW
The mercurial forward will be welcomed back into the fold, currently leading Melbourne’s goalkickers alongside Jacob van Rooyen and Brody Mihocek.
It’s a milestone moment for Jake Melksham, finally reaching 250 games in his 16th AFL campaign after a torn ACL and lost Essendon season meant he's had to wait longer than most.
Bailey Laurie has been omitted from the side, following his late addition to last week’s lineup as Fritsch was withdrawn.
The versatile Trent Rivers remains unavailable for selection with a knee issue.
“Unfortunately, Trent has been dealing with a lingering knee concern that has been causing some irritation,” GM of AFL Football Performance Alan Richardson said.
“We’re managing his loads and will gradually build him back into full training over the coming weeks.”
Adelaide-based or travelling fans can catch the Demons in action for their final tune-up at Glenelg Oval from 10:45am on Friday morning.
The Maccas Footy Festival is open from 10:00am to 2:00pm local time at Elder Park.
