Adelaide is set to be bolstered by the return of experienced forward Tom Lynch for Friday night’s blockbuster clash with Essendon at Adelaide Oval.

Lynch returns from a persistent calf injury, averaging 22 disposals, seven marks and four inside 50s per game across 10 appearances this season.

“Tom has been close to returning for a couple of weeks now, but he’s now completely confident on that calf,” Crows Head of Football Brett Burton said.

“It will be great to have someone of Tom’s calibre back in the side and we’re looking forward to seeing him back out there.”

With Lynch returning, young Crow Tyson Stengle - who kicked three goals in his Club debut last weekend - has been omitted.

“We really liked what Tyson did on Saturday night so it’s very unfortunate for him that he gets squeezed out with an experienced player coming back,” Burton said.

“Tyson has shown us he can play at the level so no doubt he’ll get another opportunity in the future.”

Lynch’s inclusion is Adelaide’s sole change to the side that defeated Gold Coast by 95 points.

The Crows will take on the Bombers from 7.20pm ACST this Friday night.

DETAILS: Adelaide’s Game Day Guide

For those not attending, the match will be broadcast live from 7pm local time on Channel 7 and Fox Footy.

On Saturday, the SANFL Crows will face North Adelaide at Prospect Oval from 2.10pm.

Adelaide’s Round 18 team is…

IN - Lynch

OUT - Stengle