Josh Walker will play his first senior game for the Lions since Round 10’s loss to Fremantle, after he was named in Senior Coach Chris Fagan’s final team to take on Port Adelaide.
The 26-year-old has earned his recall after impressive performances in the undefeated NEAFL side in recent weeks.
Walker will start on the bench, alongside Oscar McInerney who returns to the team after suffering concussion in Round 15’s win over Melbourne.
Fagan told media earlier this week McInerney was available for selection last round, but the coaching staff believed it was in his best interests to have a week off.
“We just felt that it was a pretty heavy knock and despite the fact that the tests were ok, it was best for his welfare to have a week off,” he said.
Walker and McInerney will be joined by Zac Bailey and Allen Christensen on the bench.
Archie Smith, Rhys Mathieson, Ben Keays and Jack Payne have been named as emergencies.
The Lions will meet the Power on Sunday afternoon at Adelaide Oval, a week after they had a huge win over the Crows in the annual Showdown.
“They’ve been in very good form in the last three weeks,” Fagan said.
“If we thought the challenge against GWS was big, then it will be even bigger this week. They’re fighting for a spot in the Top 8, as we are.”