Essendon have made two changes for their side to face Port Adelaide on Thursday night.

With Elijah Tsatas and Archie Perkins both missing the game to respective injuries, the Bombers are able to recall important defender Jordan Ridley, who missed last week to Concussion Protocols.

As announced on Wednesday morning, mid-season draftee Saad El-Hawli has also been named for his AFL debut in exciting news for the Dons faithful.

The 23-year-old provides plenty of dash and is a clean user of the footy - often utilised on the wing or off half back, he also loves to venture up the ground and is capable of hitting the scoreboard.

The Bombers are hoping to bounce back from consecutive defeats to open the season, beginning with their first game under the Marvel Stadium lights this season against the Power.