Tom Campbell will be given his first chance at senior football this season, after being named in the Western Bulldogs side that will take on Geelong on Saturday afternoon.

The ruckman joins Jordan Roughead, Stewart Crameri and Bailey Dale as inclusions in the Bulldogs squad, that have won their last four matches in succession.

Bulldogs assistant coach Daniel Giansiracusa said he looked forward to Campbell making the most of his opportunity.

“He’s had some really solid form over the last two weeks especially, hopefully he takes that chance.

“We know that when he’s come up to AFL level he’s been able to do that and we’re looking forward to seeing that from him this week.”

Roughead returns to the side after missing the round 15 win against the Suns with a minor back complaint, but proved his fitness in the Dogs’ main training session on Thursday.

“Obviously he’s important for us Roughie, not overly old but he’s still had a bit of experience, he’s our vice-captain, adds leadership to our group and we’re looking forward to getting him back.”

Crameri and Dale have been rewarded for consistent VFL form, with Crameri returning for his first senior game since round 10.

“(Crameri) has played some solid footy, especially last week in the VFL so we’ve got to make sure Stewy puts that in to practice at AFL level.

“We know that he’s a quality player and he works really hard, he runs really hard so we need him to bring that asset into the side.

“(Dale) didn’t do anything wrong when he went out of the side but his attitude going back to VFL level was fantastic last week.

“He only played a half the week before so he should be fairly fresh, he’s a great young player, we’re looking forward to him having that great run and carry that we know he can provide.”

While the Bulldogs haven’t won at Simonds Stadium since 2003, Giansiracusa said the stat would have little impact on the match, with his side more than prepared for the challenge.

“No one has (had much success in Geelong) over the last ten or so years so it’s a challenge.

“They’ve still got some great players and they’re still a good side on their day and we look forward to that challenge, going down there and seeing what we can give them.”

Although having lost their past two matches, Giansiracusa said the Dogs would be wary of the Cats’ quick ball movement, particularly on the narrow Simonds Stadium.

“The way they move the footy, they come through the corridor so we’ll have to make sure we watch that.

“They’ve got elite kickers, especially in their back half so we’ll have to try and put some work in to them to slow them down.”

Fletcher Roberts (ankle) and Will Minson (shoulder) come out of the side due to injury, while Michael Talia and Lachie Hunter have been omitted.

Defender Dale Morris will run out for his 200th AFL game, the 25th Bulldogs player to do so.

ROUND 16 – Geelong v Western Bulldogs
Saturday 18 July, 1:45pm
Venue: Simonds Stadium

In: T Campbell, S Crameri, B Dale, J Roughead

Out: W Minson (shoulder), F Roberts (ankle), L Hunter (omitted), M Talia (omitted)

Milestone: D Morris (200 games)