SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 08: Ben Rutten, coach of the Bombers, looks on during the round four AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the Essendon Bombers at Sydney Cricket Ground on April 08, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
Essendon are set to unleash their sixth debutant in 2021, with coach Ben Rutten confirming young ruck Nick Bryan will replace injured Andrew Phillips for their important round seven clash against arch-rivals Carlton.
Speaking to reporters on Friday morning, Rutten announced that Bryan would get his opportunity at AFL level.
"He'll play this week, 'Bryza'. Rutten said.
"Unfortunately for 'Flip' (Andrew Phillips), he got a knock during last week's game... so he won't play this week."
Bryan, 19, was selected with pick 38 by the Bombers in the 2019 AFL draft.
Standing at 202cm, Bryan has impressed for the Bombers in the club's first two VFL games and has earned his spot at AFL level.
SEE ALSO: Collingwood announce another debutant in draftee Caleb Poulter
When asked about the Bombers debuting their sixth player this season, Rutten said all six have earned their chance.
"We're giving them the opportunity, but they're earning it as well." he said.
"They're coming in and playing their role."
The Bombers will be looking to move to 3-4 on the season with a win against the Blues on Sunday afternoon.