A BAPTISM of fire against Melbourne on Queen's Birthday wonldn't faze potential Collingwood debutant Callum Brown, Magpies football manager Geoff Walsh says.
After being the traveling emergency to Perth for the Pies' stirring win over Fremantle, Brown may be called upon following injuries to Jamie Elliott (ankle), Daniel Wells (calf) and Tyson Goldsack (shoulder).
The son of club great Gavin Brown is a busy small midfielder who has displayed strong form in the VFL after overcoming glandular fever earlier in the season.
Demon Jack Watts made his debut in the Queen's Birthday blockbuster back in 2009, and was physically challenged by Magpies players just six months after being taken with pick one in the 2009 NAB AFL draft.
With both sides battling for a spot in the top eight, Walsh told SEN the magnitude of the blockbuster clash wouldn't overawe the 19-year-old.
"Kids these days are pretty well schooled in what the AFL environment is, and I know when they get out there it's (a lot) different," Walsh said.
"I remember years ago Jack Watts making his debut against Collingwood on Queen's Birthday and he got savaged a bit by the Collingwood boys, but it hasn't hurt Jack.
"So if Callum does get the nod he'll take it in his stride."
Small forward Kayle Kirby is also in the selection frame after the draftee booted 12 goals in the VFL over the past three weeks.
With fellow goalsneak Alex Fasolo unlikely to play after announcing he was dealing with mental health issues, Kirby may join Brown as the first debutants for the Pies this season.
The 19-year-old looms as a bargain selection for the club after being taken with pick 50 in last year's draft.
"While he's taken a while to hit his straps and adjust to AFL footy, his last month has been really pleasing," Walsh said.
