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Harley Bennell will make his debut for Melbourne this weekend against the Blues.
Bennell hasn't played a game of AFL for 1021 days receiving the news from coach Simon Goodwin ahead of training on Wednesday morning.
"It feels really exciting. It was a massive relief when [he was told] and I’m just happy I’m back playing AFL again," Bennell said.
"I did the work over the COVID-19 [break] and got a good program off 'Burgo' (Dees fitness boss Darren Burgess) and I stuck to the program and we’re here to today.
"I’m ready to play this weekend."
Bennell said it will always sit in the back of his mind that he could get struck down again.
"Having that happen and me stick to the program put me in stead to train the way I’ve trained over the last three weeks and get to run out with the boys this week. It’s going to be fun," he said.
IMAGE: FILE