VERSATILE big man Tom McDonald says he’s delighted to see another tall utility, Tim Smith, return to the side against Carlton at the MCG on Sunday.

Speaking upon arrival at the ground, McDonald said he was rapt to see Smith work his way back into the side, after injuries ruined his first AFL season last year.

“It’s really exciting for Tim,” he told Melbourne Media.

“It’s been a pretty tough journey for him. He’s been unlucky with ribs and foot injuries and working his way back has been a long journey.

“Round five [last year] was last senior game, so I’m just really rapt for him to get another go at it. He’s been in some really good form at Casey with his tackling and launch at the footy marking it. So, if we see those two things today, we’ll have a good day.”

McDonald, who kicked an equal career-best five goals against the Gold Coast Suns at the Gabba last round, said he was looking to build on his fine return to the team.

“I think it’s been solid form and I’ve done some good things, but it’s been the way I’ve tried to play that’s helped me,” he said.

“Last week I kicked a few goals, but I think the week before, I was trying to play the role the right way and I ended up getting rewarded for it last week.

“We’ve had guys each week bob-up and have their day in the sunshine. Hopefully today someone else has that opportunity to hit the scoreboard. But everyone doing their role will allow that to happen.”

McDonald said it was an important match for Melbourne, as it seeks to record its fourth consecutive win.

“We’ve had a good little stretch of three weeks, playing some pretty good footy,” he said.

“It’s the first game here, back at the ‘G, for a few weeks, which is pretty exciting.

“Sunday afternoon footy – red footballs, I love playing with the red pills, so I’m looking forward to playing again – it’ll be good fun out there.”