AT JUST 19 years of age, Kade Chandler is preparing to make his AFL debut.

The Demon rookie, standing at 174cm, will be taking to the MCG in Round 22, and playing his first senior game in a blockbuster under lights.

“It’s always a dream to be able to debut for an AFL club and not a better way to do it than on a Friday night,” Chandler told Melbourne Media.

“It’s probably the same as any other game of footy, just a few more people watching, but I’m just excited to get the opportunity.”

Chandler was recruited to the club with pick No.14 in the 2019 Rookie Draft and has developed quickly to earn his selection.

On Wednesday afternoon, the call he has been craving finally came, with coach Simon Goodwin breaking the news.

“Yesterday he (Goodwin) rang me in the car and I had to pull over,” Chandler said.

“I just sat there in the car for about five minutes after I heard – I just couldn’t believe it.”

With injuries aplenty for Melbourne this season, positions in the side have opened up, and Chandler, one of Casey’s best performers in the VFL to date, was ready to step up.

“Obviously we’ve been riddled with injuries this year so I thought if I could just play some consistent footy then I’d hopefully get my opportunity,” he said.

“Unfortunately, a few boys got injured, but I suppose that’s positive for me getting an opportunity.”

While it’s been less than 12 months since Chandler joined the red and blue, the South Australian-born youngster can comfortably call Melbourne home.

“It’s such a welcoming club, the Dees,” he said.

“Ever since day one I’ve felt welcome here, so I love it.”

The small forward is ready to bring his pressure to the big stage but admits there will be some nerves in the lead up to his first senior match.

“Last night I tried to get as much sleep as I could, but just lying in bed thinking about the opportunity – it’s unbelievable,” he said.

Chandlers debut clash with the Swans will kick off from 7:50pm on Friday night.