Adelaide are poised to pitch the club’s top draft pick Chayce Jones into AFL action in their season-opener against Hawthorn on Saturday.
The 19-year-old Tasmanian is set to earn an AFL debut, aided by a finger injury which will sideline experienced winger Paul Seedsman from the Adelaide Oval fixture.
“The (Seedsman) injury helps his cause so he will be around the mark,” Adelaide assistant coach Ben Hart told reporters on Monday.
Adelaide selected Jones with their first pick, No.9 overall, at last year’s national draft.
“He has shown everything that we want him to,” Hart said.
“He is a really diligent kid, he has got some speed, he kicks it well and he makes good decisions – so he’s certainly in the mix.
“One of the things he does bring is flexibility.
“He can play a small forward role, he can go onto the wing and he even spent time as an inside midfielder during the pre-season so he will certainly help the team.”
Seedsman and halfback Luke Brown, who will miss another six to eight weeks after ankle surgery, are the only frontliners unavailable for selection against the Hawks.
“We’re in a good place,” Hart said.
“There has been a few tweaks to the game plan which we’re really happy with how they’re progressing.
“And it’s always great to have nearly a full list available for round one.
“Now, it’s just about the players … it’s really over to them. They have done the work and are ready to go.”