Tom Bellchambers will play his first AFL game in 694 days when he runs out for the Bombers against Melbourne on Sunday.

The ruckman comes into the side in place of the rested Matthew Leuenberger.

A knee problem during the pre-season delayed Bellchambers’ return, but he comes into the AFL side with five VFL games under his belt.

“It’s been a long time for him waiting to get his opportunity,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.

“He’s been in very good form in the VFL, he’s worked really hard through the pre-season.

“His form really warrants selection … he could easily have been in the team on form last week, but this week he gets his chance.”

James Kelly and Aaron Francis have also been rested with Ben Howlett, Martin Gleeson, James Stewart, Kyle Langford and Conor McKenna included in the 25-man squad.

The final 22 will be named on Friday.

Kids will be admitted free of charge to the game on Sunday and there will also be free drink bottles distributed outside the ground prior to the start of the match, thanks to VicHealth.

Families can also enjoy kick-to-kick on the ground after the game.

Essendon vs. Melbourne

Sunday April 30th

1:10pm (AEST)

Etihad Stadium

In: Ben Howlett, Tom Bellchambers, James Stewart, Martin Gleeson, Kyle Langford, Conor McKenna

Out: James Kelly (rested), Matthew Leuenberger (rested), Aaron Francis (rested)

B: Patrick Ambrose, Michael Hurley, Martin Gleeson

HB: Mark Baguley, Mitch Brown, Ben McNiece

C: Travis Colyer, Zach Merrett, Andrew McGrath

HF: Orazio Fantasia, Cale Hooker, David Zaharakis

F: Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Joe Daniher, Brendon Goddard

R: Tom Bellchambers, Ben Howlett, Dyson Heppell

I: (from) Darcy Parish, Josh Green, Jobe Watson, Brent Stanton, James Stewart, Kyle Langford, Conor McKenna