FORGOTTEN Hawthorn utility Brendan Whitecross will play his first AFL game in 432 days after receiving the call-up for Thursday night's prime-time blockbuster against the Sydney Swans.

In a true tale of persistence, Whitecross has forced his way back for his first senior appearance since round six last season, when the Hawks suffered a shock defeat to Greater Western Sydney.

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The tough nut is among three changes for Hawthorn's high-stakes clash with the Swans, with coach Alastair Clarkson also bringing back Jono O'Rourke and defender Angus Litherland.

Speedy wingman Billy Hartung has been axed, while Liam Shiels (hamstring) and Daniel Howe (calf) are injured.

The Swans have made only one change, swapping in veteran Ben McGlynn for James Rose.

McGlynn responded to being dropped last round by picking up 25 disposals, laying nine tackles and booting two goals in the NEAFL, while Rose was quiet with just six touches against Geelong.

Rising star Isaac Heeney still isn't back for the Swans after being rested for the trip to the Cattery, while the Hawks haven't recalled Tim O'Brien after he was withdrawn late from the win over Port Adelaide due to illness.

After missing out on Hawthorn's premiership hat-trick partly due to two knee reconstructions, Whitecross is presented with a golden opportunity to cement a spot before finals.

The 26-year-old, who toyed with the idea of leaving the Hawks after his opportunities dried up last season, has had his strong VFL form rewarded ahead of the tough mission to Sydney.

"I'm very excited," Whitecross told the Hawthorn website.

"I was only saying to a couple of coaches yesterday it feels like Christmas in July.

"It's good to be back. No better game to come back I don't think than a Thursday night game, top-of-the-table clash. I'm pretty pumped to be back out here."

Thursday night's top-of-the-table contest will be the first time Hawthorn and the Swans have met at the SCG since 2012.

If the Hawks win, they will move two games clear on top, while the Swans can jump back into first place on the ladder with victory at home.

Thursday, July 14

Sydney Swans v Hawthorn at the SCG, 7.20pm AEST

SYDNEY SWANS

In: B.McGlynn

Out: J.Rose

HAWTHORN

In: B.Whitecross, A.Litherland, J.O'Rourke

Out: L.Shiels (hamstring), B.Hartung, D.Howe (calf)