West Australian youngster Jaxon Prior — who was cut by premiers Brisbane last year — will debut for Essendon in a blockbuster Friday night clash.
The Bombers take on modern rivals Essendon in a drawcard round-one fixture expected to draw a bumper crowd of above 85,000 to the MCG.
Prior — the son of former Essendon and West Coast player Michael — made 39 appearances for the Lions across four years but was delisted at the end of their premiership campaign.
“He is a player that has fit into our system really well. I think he was very, very unlucky not to be part of a very, very good Brisbane side. He was only kept out of that side by some very good players.
“We had a really identifiable need for the type of player that he is and he has fit in really well … he has earnt his spot.”
The 23-year-old had 13 touches and took seven marks playing down back for the Bombers in a pre-season win over Geelong a fortnight ago.
