The Eagles have been dealt a massive blow ahead of Friday night's qualifying final against Hawthorn with star centreman Matt Priddis ruled with a thigh strain.

Rumours circulated around Perth on Friday morning that Priddis was in danger of missing and he was ruled out 90 minutes before the start of the match.



According to the AFL.com website Patrick McGinnity has replaced Priddis in the selected side, and will start as sub for the Eagles.

Priddis has missed just three matches since the start of the 2011 season. He missed two in 2012 and one in 2013 and has played the last 48 matches in a row.

Hawthorn has named speedster Isaac Smith in the final 22.