AFTER some strong performances in the NEAFL, 18-year-old rookie Darcy MacPherson is set to play his first game for the Suns when they host Melbourne on Saturday.

Suns coach Rodney Eade delivered the good news to MacPherson after training on Thursday morning. MacPherson will become the 84th player to wear a Gold Coast guernsey.

Selected with pick No.16 in 2015's rookie draft, MacPherson has played four games in the NEAFL this season, averaging 24.8 disposals, 5.3 tackles and 5.8 clearances per game.

In his most recent performance against the Giants, he racked up 33 disposals, six tackles, 12 clearances and five inside 50s.

MacPherson is the son of Stephen, who played 188 games for the Bulldogs. The Dogs elected not to nominate Darcy under the father-son rule.