MELBOURNE'S Simon Goodwin has confirmed that the Dees will be bolstered by the return of tall forward Tom McDonald for Thursday's qualifying final against Collingwood. 

On the eve of the blockbuster clash, Goodwin joined media to discuss finals selections, the new opportunities in this year's campaign and facing the Pies challenge.  

TOM MCDONALD'S RETURN

“He’s played the last three games really well at VFL footy,” Goodwin said. 

“He’s kicking goals, he’s moving better, and he’s got his body 100% fit and healthy and that’s really important for Tommy.

“He’s a leader and he’s proven that he can play well in finals footy…we’re rapt to have him back.”

THURSDAY'S BIG STAGE 

“It’s a big occasion and clearly they’re very excited,” Goodwin said.

“It’s a big stage to play on, the MCG, 90 to 100,000 people and the first final with a lot to play for.

“We think we’re well prepared, we think we’re ready and we’ve had a great couple of weeks of training.

“We just can’t wait to get out there and execute what we’ve been doing the last eight weeks.”

PREPARED FOR ANY CONDITIONS

“We’ve experienced a lot of wet weather footy this year and a lot of slippery conditions,” Goodwin said.

“We feel like our games improved in those condition.

“We feel like we’re well prepared as a coaching group and playing group to take on those conditions.”