Will Hams, an 18-year-old from the Gippsland Power, will make his AFL debut for Essendon this afternoon against Sydney at the SCG.

Hams has been a late inclusion for the Bombers replacing Ben Howlett who misses with a shoulder concern.

A small but determined midfielder he was selected with the club’s only pick in the 2013 Pre-Season Draft.

The left footer has strong endurance and attacks the ball ferociously at every contest as illustrated throughout the VFL this season.

Originally from Sale, Hams played for the Gippsland Power last season and averaged 11.5 dosposals for Vic Country at the Under 18 Championships.

He was overlooked in the National Draft but took the most of his opportunity to train with the Bombers following that draft and was rewarded with selection in the Pre-Season Draft with selection No. 6.

Hams is the second debutant for Essendon this season and will line up in the No. 41 guernsey for the red and black.