ESSENDON has swung a late change ahead of its King's Birthday eve clash with Carlton, bringing in Andrew Phillips to the starting 22 and moving Massimo D'Ambrosio to the starting sub position.

The Bombers (7-5) have won three straight ahead of taking on struggling rival Carlton (4-1-7) in the Sunday night blockbuster at the MCG.

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The Bombers have won close games over Richmond and North Melbourne either side of a comfortable victory against West Coast, and they can put another dent into the Blues' fading finals hopes with a win.

Carlton has come under fire after suffering five straight losses.

Ed Curnow and Jack Martin are back for the Blues, who have axed Lochie O'Brien and Zac Fisher, while the Bombers are boosted by the return of gun forward Peter Wright.

Carlton ruckman Marc Pittonet was withdrawn from the side on Saturday after he was unable to complete a final fitness test at training that morning.

As a result, Jack Silvagni remained in the Carlton 22 from last week after being omitted when teams were released on Friday.

Carlton v Essendon at the MCG, 7.15pm AEST

LATE CHANGES
Carlton: Nil
Essendon: Andrew Phillips comes into the selected side for Massimo D’Ambrosio

SUBSTITUTES
Carlton: Paddy Dow
Essendon: Massimo D’Ambrosio