JOSH Wagner says he can’t wait to play in front of a large contingent of family and friends when he returns to his native state to take on Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium on Saturday.

The Queenslander has a strong local network, which was evident during Melbourne’s pre-season training camp at Maroochydore in January when several of Wagner’s family and friends came down to support him at training sessions.  

The 21-year-old, who was drafted from Aspley at No.6 in last November’s NAB AFL Rookie Draft, said “it’ll be pretty cool” to play in front of his family and friends.

“All of my family will be down there and all of my mates, so there will be a bit of support. It’ll be pretty awesome to get back up there,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“[Melbourne football administration manager] Mal [Smith] has been good and trying to get me as many tickets as possible.  

“I’d say everyone will be cruising down.”

It’s been a big six months for the Wagner family.

Wagner’s brother Corey was drafted to North Melbourne in last year’s NAB AFL Draft at No.43.

The Kangaroos obtained Corey, who was a Brisbane Academy player, after the Lions did not match the Roos. 

Wagner said keeping in touch with his family and friends remained an important part of his move to Melbourne.

“I speak to them every week – all my family and friends – so they’ve been awesome and really supportive, so it’ll be good to see them up there,” he said.

“I like Metricon Stadium – I’ve played there a couple of times and I think it’ll suit our game style and suit us.

“We’re trying to bounce back from last week and get back to the form we’ve been playing.”