Melbourne’s first pick in the 2003 National Draft – taken at Pick 5 – McLean has made a definite impact since making his debut in 2004. A product of the AIS/AFL Academy, McLean played nine games in that season, and displayed similar enthusiasm to former wearers of the No. 5 guernsey, particularly his most recent predecessor in David Schwarz.

Originally hailing from the Calder Under 18s side, McLean’s only hurdle in making his mark in the game has been overcoming a series of soft tissue injuries. However, in 2006 he still managed eighteen games, and was a popular winner of the Third Best and Fairest award after excelling in Melbourne’s finals campaign. He was consequently named as a newcomer to the Club’s leadership group for 2007.

Succumbing to a fractured foot suffered in Round One against St Kilda this year, McLean returned for Melbourne’s battle with the Kangaroos in Round Nine. With 22 possessions in half a game, his appearance was greeted with applause from all Melbourne.

And, with 50 games to his credit come this weekend, it is certain that another round of cheers will accompany McLean as he reaches this milestone on Saturday against Adelaide at the MCG.