All eyes will be on Andrew Swallow and Lindsay Thomas when they take the field for Werribee on Saturday.

The midfielder and small-forward were omitted from the North Melbourne side, with the VFL clash at Arden Street their first chance to stake a claim for an immediate recall.

They join a strong list of Roos inclusions. Mitchell Hibberd returns from a concussion, Braydon Preuss from his week’s rest and Corey Wagner after being the game day emergency at Domain Stadium.

In Werribee’s forward line, Nick Larkey may have his toughest test yet, possibly lining up on Michael Hartley. The Bomber has played 21 games at AFL level, giving the first-year Roo a test of where he’s at early in the season.

Ryan Clarke has had 53 disposals and kicked six goals in the opening fortnight of the VFL season, with Saturday another opportunity to continue on his good form.

Elsewhere in the midfield, Declan Mountford may have a role on one of Essendon’s best midfielders, while Will Fordham will again be relied upon for his run and carry.

Werribee v Essendon
Saturday April 29, 2:00pm EST
Arden Street

Likely North-listed players

- Ryan Clarke*
- Sam Durdin
- Will Fordham
- Mitchell Hibberd
- Nick Larkey
- Declan Mountford
- Daniel Nielson
- Braydon Preuss*
- Andrew Swallow
- Matthew Taylor
- Lindsay Thomas
- Corey Wagner*
- Declan Watson
- Josh Williams
- Cam Zurhaar

* Listed as emergency for AFL game