Adelaide has made one change ahead of its Round 19 match against Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Friday night.
Veteran forward Taylor Walker will be managed following two six-day breaks, while defender Mitch Hinge returns to the side.
Adelaide Head of Football Adam Kelly said the decision to rest Walker was made to “freshen him for the remaining five games of the season”.
“This game was one that we had identified early as a possible rest in Tex’s season management,” Kelly said.
“While you continue to update your thinking based on all the circumstances as they present, there has been nothing to alter our thinking regarding this being the most prudent decision to allow Tex to finish the year strongly.
“This also presents the opportunity for (Riley) Thilthorpe to return to the starting 22 after a pleasing return to AFL level as the substitute last week.”
Hinge was subbed out of the Round 17 loss to Brisbane and missed Saturday night’s win over St Kilda while managing adductor soreness but has recovered to earn a recall.
“We welcome Hingey back into the line up having overcome the adductor tightness which caused him to be subbed out of the game versus Brisbane a fortnight ago,” Kelly said.
James Borlase, Dan Curtin and Lachlan Gollant have been named as the emergencies.
Kelly said the side was looking forward to the challenge.
“We respect the way they (Essendon) have gone about it in 2024 and they have put themselves in a strong position year to date,” Kelly said.
“Post- bye, there has been some improvement in the consistency of our performance and we are clear on what we need to get right tomorrow night to be in a position to get the desired result.”
Adelaide plays Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Friday, with the first bounce at 7.10pm (ACST).
The match will be broadcast live on Channel 7 nationwide, Fox Footy and on Kayo.
IN: Hinge
OUT: Walker (managed)
Adelaide’s Round 19 AFL team is:
