The Sydney Swans have confirmed one change for Saturday night's clash with North Melbourne, with Caiden Cleary named to return in place of Tom Papley (heel).
Papley had scans yesterday, which revealed a bone fracture in his heel, ruling the small forward out for approximately six to eight weeks.
Cleary will come into the side for his first game this season, after an eye-catching 37-disposal performance in the VFL against Colllingwood two weeks ago.
Cleary has been named on the interchange bench, alongside Riley Bice, James Jordon, Hayden McLean and Angus Sheldrick, with Sydney to name its substitute one hour before the first bounce.
Senior Coach Dean Cox said while it was a tough blow for Papley and the team, it was a good opportunity for Cleary to step up.
"It's really unfortunate for Tom but also the football club as well," Cox said.
"As much as you don't want to see injuries, certainly to key players or senior players, it does provide youth and also gives them an opportunity.
"I've been really pleased with what a lot of the other younger players have done and Caiden's another one that gets his opportunity now."
The Swans will be searching for back-to-back victories when they meet North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium, following a spirited win over Fremantle away from home before the bye.
Cox said it would take a full four-quarter effort to get the win against a tough north Melbourne outfit.
"They've been playing some really good football, obviously to do what they did last time they were at Marvell against Melbourne was really impressive and they put it up to Adelaide as well for long periods of the game," Cox said.
"So here we're expecting a very talented list and a very tough encounter."
North Melbourne v Sydney Swans
Round 4 Sat 5 Apr 2025, 8:35 AM
Marvel Stadium, Melbourne • VIC
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View moreLast Updated 1:43 pm Sunday, April 06, 2025
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Sydney takes on Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Saturday from 7.15pm AEDT.
