MELBOURNEfc has today named a 25 man squad to face the Hawks on Easter Monday at the MCG.

Captain David Neitz will lead his team desperate for a good showing after last week’s disappointing loss to the Saints.

Brad Green will take the field for this 150th AFL game for the demons while Paul Wheatley has been named as one of seven on the interchange. After struggling with injuries through-out the pre-season, Paul may possibly line up for his 100th AFL game.

Reliable defender Jared Rivers has also been named after missing last week with a hamstring complaint. Melbourne’s defence will look a lot more versatile with the taking the centre half back position.

Adam Yze has been the topic of much media speculation in recent days, and has also been named on the long list on the interchange.

Matthew Whelan has recovered well from a heavy collision against St Kilda and will take his place in the back line. However, Melbourne will be without Brock McLean after fracturing a bone in his foot, while Byron Pickett and Colin Sylvia will spend another week in the VFL gaining some match practice.

As for Hawthorn, Shane Crawford and Campbell Brown will both return to the team that went down to Brisbane by 42 points.

Melbourne Squad
Backs: C.Bartram, N.Carroll, M.Whelan
Half backs: D.Ward, J.Rivers, D.Bell
Centreline: B.Moloney, J.McDonald, B.Green
Half forwards: C.Bruce, B.Miller, R.Robertson
Forwards: M.Jamar, D.Neitz, A.Davey
Followers: J.White, N.Jones, T.Johnstone
I/C From: M.Bate, A.Yze, C.Johnson, N.Brown, C.Bizzell, S.Godfrey, P.Wheatley

Melbourne’s final team will be announced on Saturday afternoon with full details being available on melbournefc.com.au