Essendon has named its team to take on the Cats this Saturday at Etihad Stadium.

Orazio Fantasia and Elliott Kavanagh come in for their first game of the season, while James Gwilt returns for the injured Dustin Fletcher.

Jackson Merrett was an unlucky omission.

Coach James Hird acknowledged the importance of this game with both sides coming off disappointing losses.

"Geelong is a quality football team and have been for a long time," he said.

"We think we've got the team that will do the job."

Currently sitting in 10th position on the AFL ladder, Essendon will look to reignite its season and stay in touch with the top eight with a big win over the Cats on Saturday night.

What do you think of this week's team? Tell us below!

Team: Essendon Match: AFL Round 10 - Essendon v Geelong Cats Game Date: Saturday June 6 at Etihad Stadium

Position Name Name Name Backs J.Gwilt M.Hurley M.Hibberd Half Backs M.Gleeson C.Hooker M.Baguley Centreline D.Heppell Z.Merrett B.Goddard Half Forwards T.Colyer P.Ambrose O.Fantasia Forwards J.Carlisle J.Daniher A.Cooney Followers T.Bellchambers B.Stanton E.Kavanagh Interchange B.Howlett P.Chapman J.Melksham C.Dempsey Emergencies A.Browne J.Merrett S.Edwards



In: J.Gwilt , E.Kavanagh , O.Fantasia

Out: J.Watson (Groin) , J.Merrett (Omitted) , D.Fletcher (Groin)

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