Thursday saw the release of the 2022 AFL fixture and had fans of all creeds clamoring to see where and when their sides are set to do battle.

While there are plenty of marquee matches that all AFL fans will be excited about, grand final replays, ANZAC Day, Dreamtime and Queens Birthday are just a handful of the big games already signposting the upcoming season.

Given players and coaches have changed clubs, milestones and early absences have all resulted in some intriguing matches, this means that there are some unexpected games that could be some of the most can't miss football of the season.

Ahead of the Christmas break, we have had a look at some of the big matchups and moments that you will want to keep an eye on in 2022.

4. Toby Greene vs St Kilda - Round 6

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 18: Toby Greene of the Giants looks dejected as he walks from the field after defeat in the round 22 AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Western Bulldogs at GIANTS Stadium on August 18, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Round 6 will be Greene's first match of the season after having his suspension extended to six matches.

The controversial sharpshooter will miss the first five rounds of the season due to that suspension, with St Kilda forced to face a well-rested Greene in Canberra.

Having missed an extended time, Greene will be looking to come out firing. Expect plenty of goals, disposals and free kicks in his return as he looks to impose himself on the game from the outset.

The Giants could also be in good form with one of the easier starts to the season. Only facing two top eight sides before their match against the Saints, they could already be on 3-4 wins. Bringing back Greene would only strengthen them.

There is also a chance that this could be Greene's first game of captaining the side if he ends up being selected. He replaced Stephen Coniglio as a part-time captain when the Western Australian was absent from the side.