MELBOURNE has been forced to make a late change for its clash with Richmond at the MCG on Saturday afternoon, with Neville Jetta replaced by youngster Jimmy Toumpas in the selected side.
Jetta was initially listed as a starter for the Demons when the team sheets were released, but a bout of gastro means he will be unable to take his place in the side.
That allows Toumpas, who has been unable to cement himself in the senior side over the past few weeks, to earn a reprieve.
The 20-year-old played the first two games of the season, before losing favour and falling out of the side.
His VFL performances have been consistent and before the match Paul Roos said he was confident Toumpas could deliver if called upon.
"Jimmy, I spoke to him during the week, and I’m really pleased with his progress and progress can happen in the seconds. It doesn’t just happen in the seniors," Roos told Triple M.
"He’s just tidying up his game and he’s moving forward and he’s getting better … we’re really confident to play him."
Toumpas will start on the interchange, while Jay Kennedy-Harris remains in the substitute's vest.
