Former Gold Coast Sun Taylor Hine is in line for his first appearance in the royal blue and white on Saturday.
      
NMFC.com.au can reveal the off-season acquisition will be named in the Kangaroos' 27-man squad on Thursday, for the clash against the Hawks at Craigieburn.
      
North Melbourne coach Brad Scott says the 21-year old's efforts in the pre-season make his debut much deserved - particularly after undergoing a shoulder re-construction.
      
"He's impressed us with his work ethic. We've been looking forward to getting him out on the ground in a competitive game," Scott said.
      
"But his shoulders restricted that to a certain point. Hopefully he'll get a good chance against a good Hawthorn midfielder, or a good small-forward."
      
Originally selected by the Suns as a 17-year old in 2010, Hine played nine games under Guy McKenna before joining North in November via the National Draft.
      
"We've been watching him for almost two years now. We really rate his competiveness. We rate his ability to defend very good opposition players, both in our back-line, but also in the midfield."
      
Hine's recent performances for VFL affiliate Werribee prompted defender Nathan Grima to describe him as a 'really good pick-up for the club'.
      
The full squad of 27 will be named on NMFC.com.au on Thursday at 3pm EDST.