Paul Ahern is looking to secure his spot in the North Melbourne midfield after being recalled for the Round 16 clash against St Kilda.

“I’ll be looking to cement my spot in the team,” Ahern told North Media on Saturday.

“It’s tough competition for spots at the moment but that’s what you want in a good team.

“We’ve been really competitive the last few weeks and been playing some really good footy, so it’s awesome to come in while we are playing so well.”

Ahern’s return is bittersweet, with the number 15 replacing Kyron Hayden, who ruptured his achilles tendon on debut last week.

“It’s awesome to get my opportunity, but it’s unfortunate that I am coming in for Kyron who got injured,” he said. 

The talented 22-year-old has been in strong form in the VFL in recent weeks.

“I did a bit of work on my defensive pressure and got my tackle numbers up a bit, and the coaches were happy with it,” he said. 

“They’ve told me to keep going with how I’ve been playing the last couple of weeks.”

Ahern had a career-best game last time he played at Blundstone Arena (37 disposals v West Coast), and will be looking to produce another high-calibre performance.

“It gives me confidence,” he said. 

“It’s a bit of a smaller ground and I think that suits my game style.

“It’s more contested which I like, and hopefully I can back that up and play well again tomorrow.”

One of the best stories of the year has been Majak Daw’s return this weekend, and although the group can’t be at Arden St, the playing group are planning to support Daw as much as possible.

“It’s awesome for Maj (Majak Daw),” Ahern added. 

“He’s obviously had a tough year but they boys are all really up and about for him. We are going to try and watch some of the game early tomorrow and see how he goes.”