MELBOURNE youngster Dean Kent's hopes of making a round-one debut have been jeopardised by a striking charge in the VFL on Saturday.

Kent will front the VFL Tribunal on Tuesday night, after being reported for a first-quarter hit while playing for the Casey Scorpions in a practice match against Port Melbourne.

The 19-year-old impressed with his attitude and application during the pre-season and the NAB Cup and was a chance to be included in the round one squad.

Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said after Saturday's game he expects Kent to play senior football this season.

Kent was drafted from Western Australia with pick No. 48 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft.

Dean Kent is a Midfielder in AFL Fantasy. Register your team at our AFL Fantasy Hub .

Ben Guthrie is a reporter for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter- @AFL_BenGuthrie