FORMER Demon Travis Johnstone has withdrawn from today's Brisbane Lions side to take on Melbourne at the MCG.

Johnstone, who was traded to the Lions from Melbourne at the end of 2007, had been selected to play but appears to have been given an extra fortnight to overcome a niggling hamstring complaint.

Youngster James Polkinghorne comes into the side to replace the experienced midfielder.

Johnstone missed his side’s win over Adelaide last week and, with the Lions set to enjoy a week off next weekend, the club’s medical staff have opted on the side of caution.

Melbourne will go into the match as selected.