IF THERE’S anyone who has benefitted from an extra two months of training, it’s Melbourne’s Harley Bennell.

The midfielder will make his AFL return this weekend when the Demons take on Carlton, having used the industry shutdown to get his body right.

Under the guidance of High Performance Manager Darren Burgess, Bennell has ticked all of his required boxes, with the reward to come on Saturday.

“I did the work over the COVID-19 [period],” Bennell said on Wednesday morning, after finding out the news of his selection.

“I got a good program off Burgo (Burgess). I stuck to the program and we’re here today, getting ready to play this weekend.

“I don’t want to say it, but I think the COVID-19 [period] stuck on my side a little bit.

“It’s a crisis what’s going on in the world, but having that happen and me sticking to the program that Burgo gave me, has put me in [good] stead to train the way I have trained over the last three weeks.

“I get to run out with the boys this week and I’m looking forward to it – it’s going to be fun.”

Coach Simon Goodwin announced the news after the group’s main session, with teammate and good friend Steven May the first to congratulate the 27-year-old.

For Bennell, the gesture was reflective of their journey together.

“Me and Mayzy (May) were up on the Gold Coast together and I spent five years with him,” he said.

“He’s another proud Indigenous boy [and] he’s sort of like a big brother to me.

“But he’s not the only one at this footy club. The whole playing group here – ever since I walked through this door, they supported me, they brought me in like another brother and I’m thankful for that.”

Alongside his teammates, the coaching panel have also had Bennell’s back since he arrived at the club.

And there’s one in particular who’s been a standout.

“Goody (Goodwin) has been like another father figure for me,” Bennell said.

“He’s more away from footy than football, because he knows I can play footy. Just away from the club, he’s there to talk to.”

The morning was full of more exciting news for Demon fans, with youngsters Luke Jackson and Trent Rivers also set to debut this weekend.

The best mates from Western Australia were equally as excited to be running out in the red and blue for the first time in their AFL careers.

“It’s pretty surreal,” 18-year-old Rivers said.

“[It’s been] a lot of hard work and the opportunity has come.

“Hopefully I can shine.”

And for Jackson, who was the third overall selection in the 2019 National Draft, it’ll certainly be a day to remember.

“It’s just a dream come true,” the 198cm utility said.

“As a kid, I always dreamed of this moment, so for it to actual happen, there’s no better feeling.”

The Demon trio will head to Marvel Stadium on Saturday, as Melbourne recommences its 2020 season against the Blues at 4.35pm.