Hawthorn ruckman Ben McEvoy is set to make a surprise return to the line-up on Friday night.
McEvoy wasn’t expected back for at least another week, but the big man has proven his fitness ahead of the huge clash with Essendon.
The 29-year-old is an extremely valuable addition to the Hawks side, with his presence set to enhance multiple players’ influence on the game with his ability to give midfielders first-use.
A key trait of McEvoy’s game, his aerial impact is not only a delight to watch but is also a key performance indicator for his side.
Over the course of the last two home and away seasons, every time McEvoy has taken at least seven marks, the Hawks have won.
The worth of the two-time premiership player’s marking is also told through the fact that he averages more contested marks than any other player in 2019.
