Brisbane Lions midfielder, Will Ashcroft will make his long-awaited return against Melbourne under the Gabba lights this Friday night.

After suffering an ACL injury in round 19 last year, Ashcroft will line up for the first time this season, giving senior coach Chris Fagan, another lever to pull in his midfield.

Ashcroft replaces fellow 2022 draftee, Shadeau Brain who was the substitute against Port Adelaide but has been named as an emergency alongside Darcy Fort and Deven Robertson.

06:02

Ashcroft: "I'm Hungry to Get After It"

Michael Whiting sits down with Will Ashcroft to discuss his journey back from injury ahead of his anticipated return

Darragh Joyce comes in for Jack Payne who will miss the Dees clash with foot soreness.

The first bounce is at 7:40pm AEST, catch all the action live on 7Mate, Fox Footy, Kayo or follow along for updates across all the Lions social channels.