Young Essendon midfielder Kobe Mutch will realise his dream and make his AFL debut for the Bombers against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Mutch – a former member of the GWS Academy – was selected by Essendon with pick 42 in the 2016 National Draft after the Giants failed to match the Bombers’ bid on the exciting midfielder.
He immediately made an impact for Essendon’s VFL side in his first season at the club last year, finishing second in the best and fairest behind experienced Bomber Heath Hocking.
Senior coach John Worsfold said Mutch has put plenty of pressure on selectors in his short time at the club.
“Kobe’s been knocking on the door for quite a while,” Worsfold said on Friday.
“His form last year was outstanding in the VFL for a first-year player.
“(He) had a little setback in the off-season early with some knee surgery, but we knew he’d get up to speed quickly and he’s done that and we’re excited about his opportunity.”
Mutch’s athleticism has impressed his coach and Worsfold said he can be used in a number of roles in the senior side.
“His work ethic, his running ability to get up and down the ground, ball-winning ability – he knows how to win it both inside a contest and running hard on the outside.
“So he can play several roles for us through an inside mid or an outside mid, or even at half-forward or half-back with his running capabilities.”
The lifelong Bombers fan is the club’s second debutant for the season after fellow midfielder Matt Guelfi impressed in his first match against Port Adelaide in round four.
To see the final team to take on the Demons CLICK HERE.