First round draft pick Marcus Bontempelli has been named to make his AFL debut in Western Bulldogs colours against Carlton on Sunday.

The versatile 18-year-old has impressed playing for Footscray Bulldogs recently and will be rewarded for his efforts on the weekend.

Michael Talia and Luke Dahlhaus have also been named in the final team, with Dale Morris (suspended), Lachie Hunter (omitted) and Jason Tutt (omitted) out of the side.

Assistant Coach Shannon Grant said Bontempelli had more than earned his opportunity at the top level and will benefit from the senior exposure on Sunday.

“He’s an impressive kid, he’s one of those kids that does everything right,” Grant said.

“He’s got a great level head on his shoulders and the games that he’s played at VFL level that we’ve seen wherever he’s been - playing in the midfield or going forward - he’s had an impact wherever he’s played.”

View Marcus Bontempelli's player profile.

Talia will also play his first game for the season in the AFL side after making steady gains playing for Footscray in the opening two rounds.

“Tals has been in pretty good form in the VFL for us over the last couple of weeks and he would certainly come in and if he does get the opportunity, be able to play a role for us on one of their taller forwards,” Grant said.

Tom Campbell, Lachie Hunter and Jason Tutt have been named as emergencies.



Round 5 - Western Bulldogs v Carlton

4:40pm, Sunday, 20 April 2014

at Etihad Stadium



View the Carlton line-up for Sunday's match at Etihad Stadium at westernbulldogs.com.au/teams

