Home and away season rules are back in for North Melbourne's final pre-season clash against the Blues.

Whether that affects Brad Scott and his team's mid-week preparations is doubtful, but there's sure to be a different approach come game-day with a return to the three interchange, one substitute system.

Interestingly, the ability to bring on three emergencies after half-time still remains, but even more focus will be around selection with a reduced squad limit of 25 presenting another challenge.

North Melbourne is set to recall co-vice captain Drew Petrie to the team, while Scott McMahon and Lachlan Hansen will also be pushing for selection after being rested for the Bulldogs' match.

Ben McKinley (three goals) and Ben Warren (four goals) also have legitimate claims for a call-up after some promising form in the VFL.

The Blues are set to regain up to ten senior players and have earmarked playing close to a full strength line-up.