THERE will be two sets of brothers lining up for Melbourne on the MCG this Friday night, with Corey and Josh Wagner both selected in the side.
The Wagner’s will be joining brothers Oscar and Tom McDonald in the Dees’ line up to face Essendon, as Steven May (groin) and Tom Sparrow (omitted) make way for the pair.
It was announced on Thursday that May is expected to be stuck on the sidelines for three weeks with his groin injury, while Sparrow will play in the VFL against Box Hill Hawks on Sunday.
Melbourne’s clash with the Dons will be an enjoyable one for the Wagner family, with the brothers playing together at AFL level for the first time.
And older brother Josh said it’s going to be an emotional night for his parents.
“Mum and dad are stoked so it’s exciting for the family,” he told Melbourne Media.
“Him getting picked up by the club was great and now getting to play together is unreal – not many brothers get to do that.”
While it’s a momentous occasion for the family, it won’t be the first time the duo have played on the same footy side.
“We played a little bit together back at our home club,” J.Wagner said.
“And then when Corey got delisted (from North) he came to Casey which was unreal – I really enjoyed it.”
J.Wagner hasn’t played a senior game since Round 5 last season, but has been a consistent performer for Casey, constantly pushing his claim for a recall.
“It’s been a long time between drinks but it’s awesome to be back,” J.Wagner said.
“I’ve had three pre-season games for Casey now and I’m playing some consistent footy there which I think Goody (Simon Goodwin) saw.”
The 24-year-old has played 28 AFL games since being drafted to the club as a rookie in 2016 and is looking forward to filling a void in defence as May exits the side.
“Friday night footy is always good, so I can’t wait to get out there,” J.Wagner said.
Younger brother Corey (aged 21), also makes his return to the team to play his second game in red and blue colours.
The versatile small first represented the club against Port Adelaide in Round 1 after previously playing eight games with North Melbourne.
Billy Stretch, Braydon Preuss, Tom Sparrow and Harry Petty make up the emergency list for the clash with the Bombers.
Check out the full team to face Essendon below:
