BRISBANE Lions recruit Travis Johnstone has just one wish when he pulls on the Lions guernsey for the first time in Saturday night’s NAB Cup match against Essendon – not to get injured.

The former Melbourne star said the Lions would be playing for a win against the Bombers at the Gold Coast Stadium, but his own expectations were much more selfish.

"Probably just not to get injured," Johnstone said, when asked about taking the field as a Lion for the first time.

Johnstone, who played 160 games for the Demons and earned a best and fairest in 2005 before being traded to the Lions last year, said the move had been positive.

"Brisbane has been great to me, especially the players as well."

His arrival at the club will add strength to the Lions’ midfield which already includes the likes of veteran Nigel Lappin, Simon Black and Luke Power.

The 27-year-old said the Lions were eyeing a winning start to the pre-season in a match where both clubs have named inexperienced squads.

"It doesn’t matter what team you put out on the park, especially the first round NAB Cup, I think everyone is so excited, young players too," he said.

"Once you cross the white line it’s hell for leather and you’re out there to win, so hopefully we’ll be out there, we’ll be giving it a fair nudge."

Assistant coach Justin Leppitsch will take over the reins at Brisbane for the match, while Matthew Knights will coach the Bombers for the first time.