Hawthorn has made two changes heading into its Round 12 clash with the Suns.
Tim O’Brien and Will Langford will rejoin the side, while Ty Vickery and Dallas Willsmore have been omitted.
GM- Football Operations Jason Burt said it was a real positive for a significant crop of younger players to be exposed to consistent bouts of senior football, including the returning Tim O’Brien.
“It’s great to have O’Brien coming back in,” says Burt.
“He showed some really good form earlier in the season before an injury set back, and didn’t miss a beat upon return to Box Hill last week, finishing the game with three goals.
“It’s really positive to have the likes of O’Brien, Ryan Burton, Blake Hardwick, James Cousins, Kaiden Brand and Daniel Howe all showing some consistency in their performances at AFL level.
“Langford is another great addition to the side as we always know he’s going to work hard for the ball and provide that extra bit of grunt in our midfield.”
While Willsmore will head back to Box Hill after just two AFL games, Burt believes the youngster will be far richer for the experience.
“Dal embraced his AFL opportunity, and showed some positive signs across the last two weeks.
“We’re confident he’ll continue to grow and develop as a player, and we’re hoping to see him get another opportunity soon.”
ROUND 12 TEAM
Hawthorn v Gold Coast
MCG
Saturday 10 June, 1.45pm
B: Blake Hardwick, Kaiden Brand, Shaun Burgoyne
HB: Ryan Burton, Josh Gibson, Daniel Howe
C: Isaac Smith, Luke Hodge, Liam Shiels
HF:Luke Breust, Jack Gunston, Will Langford
F: Tim O’Brien, Jarryd Roughead, Paul Puopolo
R: Ben McEvoy, Tom Mitchell, James Cousins
INT: Ricky Henderson, Taylor Duryea, Brendan Whitecross, James Sicily
Emer: Billy Hartung, Kade Stewart, Ryan Schoenmakers
