Fringe Carlton midfielder Paddy Dow is expected to get his first run at AFL level this year as the Blues' tactical sub for Friday's clash with Melbourne.
Dow hasn't featured at senior level this season despite a dominant run of form in the VFL, while he managed just the four games last year - half of which came as an unused medical sub.
The 23-year-old is averaging 31.7 disposals, 4.6 tackles and 8.0 clearances from his nine games with Carlton's reserves in 2023 to sit second in the VFL for coaches votes with 46 to his name, one behind Southport's Jacob Dawson.
While Dow has continued to feature as one of Luke Power's best performers, the young onballer has struggled to break into the senior side given its star-studded midfield ensemble of Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsg, Adam Cerra, George Hewett and Matt Kennedy.
Hewett was among six outs for Round 12 due to concussion, however Dow was unable to find himself in the starting side for a must-win game under Michael Voss.
Instead, the Blues have recalled Lochie O'Brien, Zac Fisher, Jack Silvagni, Alex Cincotta and Lewis Young for the fixture, with Dow named as an emergency.
According to The Herald Sun, the unutilised midfielder is expected to edge out fellow emergencies Lachie Fogarty, Lachie Plowman and Round 11 tactical sub Ed Curnow for the role to face Melbourne.
The move would see Dow feature in his first game in the navy blue since Round 21 last year against Brisbane.
The Blues are set to confirm their final squad for Round 12 at 6:50pm (AEST) - one hour prior to the opening bounce at the MCG.
