Elijah Tsatas will make his AFL debut this Saturday when Essendon take on West Coast.
The Greek Australian was drafted with pick five in last year’s national draft, the dynamic midfielder was touted by many to make his debut in Round 1.
However, Tsatas’ start to his AFL career was delayed after suffering a knee injury during the pre-season.
It’s been lengthy wait for the ‘Greek’, and after playing seven games in the VFL, averaging more than 25 disposals, four tackles and three marks, he is primed and ready for the big stage.
Tsatas spent most of the second half of last week’s VFL loss to Sydney in the forward half, but still gathered 22 touches, six clearances and five tackles.
The 18-year-old was recruited from Oakleigh Chargers and Vic Metro, where he as a dominant player through the Chargers’ midfield last year, claiming their best and fairest after just playing six games.
A new chapter for the number five begins this weekend. pic.twitter.com/MEkxTvFiIq
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) August 2, 2023
Fans may notice a nose emoji in his Instagram bio, with the young gun explaining why in an interview earlier this year.
“The family,” he said. “We’ve got Greek background so I get a bit of stick about my nose being big.”
Donning the famous number five, a number worn by club greats such as Terry Daniher and James Hird, the Bombers faithful would be hopeful that one day the Tsatas name lives amongst those.
It is a little boost for the Dons who are looking to get back on the winners list after three consecutive losses that now sees them sit 13th on the ladder, but are still in finals contention.
Essendon will host West Coast this Saturday at 1.45pm AEST at Marvel Stadium.
With just a month remaining for the home and away season, they’ll walk in a favourite against bottom two sides West Coast and North Melbourne before two challenging games, travelling Sydney to play the in form GWS Giants and a final round clash against ladder leaders and long-time rival Collingwood.
