When Brad Scott made a beeline towards Farren Ray after main skills on Wednesday, the veteran winger wasn’t sure what to think.

“As Brad walked over to me I was thinking, maybe I’m a chance, or is he going to see Sam [Gibson] or Dal [Nick Dal Santo]?” he told NMFC.com.au.

When Scott extended his hand for a handshake, the penny quickly dropped. The senior coach delivered the news that the former Bulldog and Saint had earnt a spot to play against Carlton.

“I was rapt. Nicky Dal was near me, Sam Gibson, [I’ve] played obviously a lot of footy with Dal and they’ve played a lot on the wing so I’ll be able to go through the role with them.”

The 30-year-old’s career was almost over after being delisted by St Kilda in 2015, but North threw him a lifeline. Now, he’ll have the opportunity to add to his 205 game career on Saturday night at Etihad Stadium.

“You always get the butterflies in the stomach before any game, especially the first game for another football club,” he said.

“It will mean everything, I’ve played at two clubs before this but there’s a rich sort of history here.”

Ray had previously been given false hope, after being elevated off the Rookie List twice, but without immediate selection.

“It’s definitely a different experience being on the Rookie List this year, but [a] great opportunity the club’s given me and I haven’t thought too much about the Rookie List, I’ve just tried to go about my business, train well and play well on the weekends and a spot’s opened up so it’s really good.

“I came in at the end of last year and now I’m playing, so it’s terrific.”