Tom Bellchambers concedes he feels like a ‘rookie’ again as he prepares to make his comeback for the Bombers.

The ruckman hasn’t played since mid-2015 but comes into the line-up to replace the rested Matthew Leuenberger.

“It has been a while – I had to give the parents a call last night to tell them I got a game and they were very excited,” Bellchambers said.

“I’m very nervous but at the same time very excited. I’ve played a lot of football before, it has been two years but I can’t wait to get out there.”

Bellchambers has played 79 games across his ten seasons at the Bombers.

The 2013 campaign, in which he kicked 28 goals form 18 games, has been his standout year so far, but injury has often stalled his progress.

But with an extended run in the VFL under his belt, Bellchambers feels confident he can perform consistently for the team.

“In the past I’ve maybe rushed back a little early but it has probably hurt me in the long run,” he said.

“For me to get four or five weeks under my belt of training has really helped me and it is going to hold me in good stead for the long term.

“The game has changed a lot but at the same time I played some good footy in the last couple of weeks in the VFL and I’m really confident I’m going to come in and make a good impression and play my role for the team." 

Bellchambers is one of at least three inclusions for the Bombers with Martin Gleeson and Ben Howlett also named in the starting 18.

The final 22 will be announced at 5pm.

Melbourne has named Cameron Pedersen in the ruck, following injuries to key big men Max Gawn and Jake Spencer.

But the lack of a recognised ruckman won’t change Bellchambers’ approach.

“I just have to treat it like a normal game. I’ve played against Pedersen before and he’s a really great competitor,” he said.

“It doesn’t really change too much, I’ve still got to go out there and play my role … whoever Melbourne put out there is up to them, but I’m really excited.”