Ben McNiece has been elevated onto the Club’s senior list and is in the mix for senior selection against Collingwood in the traditional ANZAC Day clash on Tuesday.

McNiece has earned his elevation in place of Jayden Laverde who is currently on the long term injury list while rehabilitating from ankle surgery.

The 25 year-old was signed as the Bombers’ inaugural Next Generation Academy player, and has impressed over the past month with a string of consistent performances with the Bombers’ VFL side.

McNiece is a speedy small defender who not only provides great run off half back, but has developed a reputation for being able to shut down dangerous small forwards.

If selected in the team, McNiece will join a very special group of players who have made their debut on ANZAC Day.

Essendon will unveil its squad for ANZAC Day at 5.30pm on Saturday.