CHARLIE Spargo will make his long-awaited return to AFL football after more than 12 months on the sidelines with injury.

Confirmed for Melbourne’s final 23 to face North Melbourne on Sunday, the 25-year-old is set to pull on the Dees guernsey for the first time since the Opening Round of the 2024 season, making it 381 days between games.

Sidelined with an Achilles concern back in March last year, Spargo spent months focusing on various avenues of rehab before surgery in July was considered the best step towards a return.

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Access | Spargo's 12-month rehab progress

We followed Charlie Spargo in his first game back since injuring his achilles last year.

Fast forward eight months and last Sunday he successfully played a full four quarters of footy during Casey’s practice match against Coburg.

Not only did he get through the game from a physical standpoint, but he shone with fresh confidence, kicking three goals and reminding everyone of his slick skills and determined pressure.

A fan favourite since walking through the doors eight years ago, Spargo will no doubt be met with a wave of joy from the Demon faithful come Sunday.

The full Round 2 side will be announced today at 5pm.