Carlton could add significant speed to its side to suit the wide expanses of the MCG ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Crows.
The Blues have already lost line-breaking backman Ciaran Byrne to a season-ending ACL injury but have several pacy players in solid VFL form who could come into the senior side.
Blaine Boekhorst made an impressive comeback from a broken wrist in the Northern Blues’ 13-point loss to Collingwood in the VFL last Saturday. After spending a month on the sidelines, Boekhorst finished with 17 touches and two goals switching between wing and half-forward.
Enemy: Backline shuffle for Blues
Nick Graham may return to the senior team for the first time since Round 11 after a best-on-ground performance. The 22-year-old midfielder collected a game-high 40 possessions, 11 clearances and seven inside 50ms.
Brendon Bolton may also consider adding Mark Whiley (31 disposals, 11 clearances) and Dylan Buckley (17 disposals, one goal) to inject even more zip to Carlton’s lineup.
Youngster Charlie Curnow made his return from glandular fever and a minor ankle complain in the Northern Blues development side last Sunday but is unlikely to step straight back into the AFL team this weekend.