James Gwilt has been named to play his first game for Essendon this Sunday against Hawthorn at the MCG.

The former Saint joins a defensive unit that was impressive for three quarters against Sydney.

“Into the side we’ve brought some pace and also, with James Gwilt, some experience as well," Essendon Coach James Hird said.

“We’re pretty happy that we’ve got like for like and we’ll be able to match the team up pretty well."

David Myers (shoulder) and Dustin Fletcher (groin) will miss the match through injury.

“Dustin just got a little bit sore in the groin after the game and we just want to be very conservative with him,” Hird said. 

Courtenay Dempsey, Jason Ashby and Lauchlan Dalgleish have been named alongside former Crow Shaun McKernan on an extended interchange bench.

“It’s a fantastic effort from being delisted by Adelaide back in September last year to potentially playing his first game for Essendon on the weekend, it’s a great story,” Hird said. 

The Bombers haven’t beaten Hawthorn since 2010 and face a Hawthorn line-up fresh from a 62 point win against Geelong.

“We need to get our hands on the ball first and use it well obviously.  We know we’re playing a very good team but we’re confident going into the game,” Hird said.