Shaun Edwards has been picked to play in Saturday night’s Dreamtime at the ‘G match.

The game will mark Edwards’ first senior match of the season and comes on the back of some impressive form in the VFL.

In the past three weeks, Edwards has averaged 25 possessions and kicked five goals in a role that has seen him play across half forward and also on the wing.

“It’s consistency which has been a big focus for him,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said. 

“We know he’s talented but a good game would be followed up by a very quiet game.

“He’s now strung three games together at the required level to be considered and us believe that he is ready to come in and carry that on into the AFL team. 

“He’s worked really hard at that and that’s a credit to him, to put his hand up and be selected.”

Edwards is one of three inclusions alongside Ryan Crowley and Courtenay Dempsey.

Worsfold said Dempsey was just as thrilled for Edwards’ call up, as he was his own.

“Courtenay was really excited but deep down I think he was just as excited for Shaun Edwards to get in because he works closely with Shaun, helping him create his own AFL career,” he said.

“I could see a sense of pride in Courtenay in Shaun being selected, so that was nice to see.” 

Dempsey returns after two weeks out with a hamstring complaint.

The defender had been in good form prior to his injury, picking up 25 possessions against Carlton in round six and then 25 possessions against Sydney.

James Polkinghorne, Mason Redman and Conor McKenna were left out of the side.