Chris Dawes is ready to play. Picture: Derrick Den Hollander Source: Herald Sun
FORMER Magpie Chris Dawes will make his long-awaited debut for Melbourne in the club's must-win clash against Gold Coast on Sunday.
After two encouraging hit-outs in the VFL, Dawes is all but certain to add some much-needed firepower and leadership to the Dees' forward-line at the MCG.
Dawes, one of the club's prized end-of-season recruits, has missed the first six rounds with a recurring hamstring problem but showed positive signs kicking four goals for Casey in the VFL on Saturday.
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The Dees were forced to use a makeshift forward set-up against Carlton on Sunday without big men Mitch Clark (foot), Mark Jamar (groin) and playmaker Jack Watts (hamstring).
Jamar and No.1 draft pick Watts will be sidelined for up to two matches, while Clark faces two months out after surgery on his foot.
Dawes, 24, will provide a strong marking target against a weakened Giants backline if he can complete tomorrow morning's training without setback.
Melbourne football manager Josh Mahoney said the 193cm spearhead was set to make a welcome return.
"He's played two games in the VFL and in the second game, he moved well, he kicked some goals and we expect him to play," Mahoney said.
Melbourne traded picks No.20 (Tim Broomhead) and No.47 (Mitch Wilkins) to Collingwood for the 2010 premiership forward at the end of last year.
Dawes has played only one NAB Cup game for Melbourne because of hamstring and calf troubles.
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