Injury to North midfielder paves the way for another debutant
LEVI Greenwood will miss North Melbourne's round 23 clash against Melbourne with a minor calf injury, but the Roos are extremely confident the rejuvenated midfielder will be fit to play in week one of the finals.
Greenwood injured his calf at North training on Wednesday.
North is expected to make a number of changes for Saturday night's clash with key forward Mason Wood already confirmed to make his debut.
A North spokesman told AFL.com.au on Thursday that Greenwood had been ruled out, but scans had revealed the injury was minor.
"Fortunately, the injury is at the very minor end of the scale, but with the finals coming up the club will take a cautious approach," the spokesman said.
"Levi won't play against Melbourne, but the club is extremely confident that he'll be right to play in the first week of the finals."
After falling out of favour at Arden Street in 2012 and 2013, when he played just 11 games, Greenwood has been one of North's most-improved players this season.
Since breaking into the Roos' team in round two as the substitute, the South Australian has averaged 25 possessions a game and been North's most consistent midfielder.
Greenwood sits fourth among North players in the AFL Coaches Association player award, having polled 34 votes. Only Brent Harvey, Ben Cunnington and Scott Thompson have polled better.