The return of three-time Club Champion Rory Laird headlines three inclusions to Adelaide’s team for Showdown 54.
Laird, who missed last week’s three-point loss to Melbourne due to a shoulder injury, has been named in the Crows’ starting midfield.
Rising star nominee Max Michalanney also returns for Saturday night’s clash with Port Adelaide, after being managed against the Demons.
Adelaide Head of Football Adam Kelly said the duo would be a boost to the line-up.
“Having each played the opening 17 games of the season Rory and Max are welcomed inclusions into the team after missing last week’s game against Melbourne,” Kelly said.
“We all know just how important Rory has been to our midfield over the past few seasons, he consistently delivers and impacts the result of games.
“While Max has been outstanding for a first year player who is often asked to negate some of the very best forwards in the game.”
Adelaide has also announced a Club debutant in Irish defender Mark Keane.
Keane - who played five games for Collingwood before returning to Ireland at the beginning of 2022 - joined the Crows in February and will become the first international rookie to debut for the men’s AFL side.
“In January this year, Mark played in the Championship winning All Ireland Junior Club Hurling Final with Ballygiblin,” Kelly said.
“In July he is making his debut with our Club, in a Showdown, what a year he is having.
“After only arriving in Australia in February, Mark got to work and has shown steady progression throughout the SANFL season.
“He belies his relative inexperience in the game with his ability to intercept, show composure and use the footy to good effect, while also enjoying the combative nature of the game.”
Izak Rankine (hamstring) and Nick Murray (knee) come out of the side due to injuries sustained against Melbourne last week.
“The unfortunate injuries to Nick and Izak last week have necessitated change to the line-up,” Kelly said.
“Both have performed very well this season and will be missed but opportunities await for others.”
Utility Brayden Cook has been omitted, and will join Jake Soligo, Ned McHenry and Elliott Himmelberg as an emergency.
One of the four will be named substitute an hour before the game.
Adelaide takes on Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval this Saturday night, with the first bounce at 7.10pm.
IN: Keane, Laird, Michalanney
OUT: Cook (omitted), Rankine (hamstring), Murray (knee)
Adelaide’s Showdown 54 team is:
