Essendon will debut Elijah Tsatas against West Coast at Marvel Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Selected with pick five at the 2022 NAB AFL Draft, the dynamic midfielder has earned his AFL selection after dominant performances in the VFL.

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Draft | Elijah Tsatas interview

We speak to new recruit Elijah Tsatas after he was taken at pick 5 in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft.

Tsatas has played seven games in the VFL averaging more than 25 disposals, four tackles and three marks. He recorded a career-high 35 disposals in the one-point victory against the Gold Coast SUNS in Round 15.

Recruited from the Oakleigh Chargers and Victoria Metro, Tsatas was dominant throughout the Oakleigh Chargers’ midfield in 2022 and claimed their best and fairest from only six NAB League games.

The 18-year-old has had an interrupted start to his AFL career after suffering an acute meniscus tear during the pre-season. The club took a conservative approach with his injury to give him the best chance to recover and ensure he is physically ready for his AFL career.

A new chapter for the number five at Essendon begins this weekend.