As North Melbourne prepares for its first trip to Tasmania for premiership points this season, all eyes will be on selection as North looks to bounce back after its loss to Melbourne last weekend.

North showed some positive signs in its Round 3 defeat, however, the young Roos were ultimately overrun by a much cleaner Demons’ outfit.

The result was similar for North’s VFL side, which lost to an energetic AFL Academy outfit by 43 points.

North Media looks at those in the mix for selection ahead of Saturday night’s clash with Carlton at Blundstone Arena.

Defenders

Vice-captain Robbie Tarrant was a late out from Saturday’s team following hamstring soreness, but is expected to be available for selection this weekend given the extremely cautious approach taken by North.

Sam Wright continued his road to an AFL return last week after completing a full hit-out in the VFL. The 27-year-old now has six quarters under his belt, but will likely to need another week or two in the VFL before being ready for a return to the senior team.

Ben McKay’s development as a defender continues to progress, with the versatile big man showing positive signs in the VFL.

Midfielders

Pick 23 in last year’s NAB AFL Draft, Will Walker, is knocking on the door of the senior side after back-to-back strong performances in the VFL. Brad Scott mentioned the 19-year-old as one of the young Roos who is closing in on selection, and could be a chance to debut sooner rather than later.

Braydon Preuss displayed his trademark physicality in the VFL on the weekend, while dominating the ruck exchanges. Preuss gathered 14 disposals to go with his 31 hit-outs and 5 clearances.

Declan Mountford continues to build following his return from shoulder surgery this pre-season, while Paul Ahern is still finding his feet after a long stint on the sidelines.

Forwards

Nick Larkey’s impressive performances in-front of goal continued on the weekend, kicking 2 goals to take his VFL practice match goal tally to 16.

Mason Wood looks a step closer to rediscovering his form, kicking 2 goals from 15 disposals in Saturday’s match.

However, the dominance of Ben Brown and Jarrad Waite is likely to mean North’s key forwards will have to bide their time.

Small forward Cameron Zurhaar continues playing his role in the VFL, and could be close to a recall after he was pulled from Saturday’s curtain-raiser at half-time to be on standby for the AFL side.