Cooney has been in doubt for the clash with Victoria, but his coach refused to stand in the way of his selection.
“From all accounts it [his ankle] has improved. I spoke to Adam this morning and he is pretty keen to play. As I said all along, if he’s right he should play.
“I think for all younger players who haven’t played State of Origin footy it is a great experience. It will certainly be great for Ryan Griffen and Daniel Cross. Robert Murphy is desperate to play and I think even Matthew Richardson who has played before and is 32 is really keen to play.”
Eade’s views contrast with Brisbane Lions coach Leigh Matthews who has said he would prefer if his captain Jonathan Brown took the week off to rest his quad.
Eade said he could understand Matthews’ concerns.
“If you don’t want to take any risks that’s fine. I think with Brown, Dean Cox and Adam as well, even though they are carrying some injuries they do want to play,” he said.
“The public and media have underestimated the pull of the game. All players have said they do want to play and there is a real passion for the game.”
Eade spoke not long after news broke that Cats' star Gary Ablett would miss the match, but denied suggestions that Victorian coach Mark Thompson may have made the move just to protect Geelong’s interests.
“I would have thought Gary wanted to play but he’s got a bit of concern with his calf,” he said.
“Mark’s a man of high quality and character so I would have thought he’d play if he was right but obviously he’s not.”
The Hall of Fame Tribute Match comes after an impressive start to the season for the Bulldogs and while Eade says he would like to continue his winning ways, the club would welcome the break.
“There’s arguments both ways. One is the momentum, you’d like to keep it going.
"But we’ve had four or five guys who are carrying some minor complaints and it gives them a chance to freshen up. From our point of view it is terrific timing.”
