Having played the role as substitute for most of his games in 2012, Matthew Campbell knows that when he gets his opportunity on the field, he has to make the most of it.

When Daniel Wells and Leigh Adams were struck down with injuries in the opening term again Essendon on Sunday, that’s exactly what he did.

Campbell ditched the red vest and proved he is worthy of a starting spot as he racked up 13 disposals and 4 tackles; his best performance since his Round 14 recall.

“Once the call’s made you’ve just got to go out there and do the job. You’ve got to grab it (the opportunity),” Campbell explained.

“I’ve got to come on and use my freshness and pace. It’s pretty helpful having speed.”

But the opportunity to play close to a full-match was bitter sweet for Campbell, as it was a result of two teammates sustaining injuries. It’s something the 25-year-old hates seeing, despite it providing him an opening.

“You want to get on there and have an impact, but you also want your good players out there,” Campbell said.

“When you see Daniel Wells or Leigh Adams go down you’re hoping they’ll get up and go back out there.”

Wearing the red vest and waiting in anticipation for the call from the coach might not seem all that great, but Campbell isn’t fazed. Instead, the crafty Roo sees the positives and has ideas for the role in the future.

“The sub is in footy now, I don’t think it’s going to go away. I think if anything it’s probably going to go to two (subs),” he predicted.

“You’ve just got to embrace it. It’s a role, it’s in the team, you’re not playing reserves, you’re not injured, so it’s just the road you’ve got to take.”

With the win over the Bombers increasing the Roos’ chances of playing finals, Campbell is hoping to increase his chances of becoming a starting player.

“I’m just happy to be in the team, whether that be as a sub or playing a full game.

“But if I move up into the midfield then I could become a bit of a factor there, so that could be something to work on.”

Campbell has played 11 games this year, averaging 10 disposals while taking the mantle as the club’s ‘super-sub’.