Aaron Francis' hard work has earned him a spot in this week's senior team.

Taken with Essendon’s second pick in the 2015 draft, Francis has worked tirelessly to overcome an injury disrupted debut season to find his rhythm playing predominantly in the backline for Essendon VFL. 

While he has spent the majority of his time down back, his strong marking ability and read on the play has also seen him also drift forward at times with great success. 

Dubbed a 'utility' throughout his junior career, Francis' standout game came against North Melbourne’s affiliate team, Werribee, where he played a solid game down back before drifting forward to kick three goals - including one of the goals of the year.

It is this versatility, in addition to his dedication on the training track that earned Francis his long awaited senior call up.

“He’s a strong marking player who can play at either end of the ground and impact,” said Worsfold

“He can impact in the air as a defender and certainly as a forward both reading the game in the air and on the ground. 

“He’s a very versatile and exciting player.”

Largely untested due to his injuries, the coaches and fans are looking forward to seeing what the youngster is capable of at a senior level.

A native South Australian, Francis was highly rated coming into the 2015 draft and was touted as an incredible talent.

When he runs out on Sunday afternoon, Francis will become the fifth Essendon player taken from the National Draft to make his debut.

Although there is a large amount of excitement surrounding hia first game, Worsfold knows that this will just be the first step for the youngster, believing that he is only going to get better.

“He’s had a fairly interrupted year, so he’s certainly not in his peak in terms of his physical development yet. We know that that’s years away, 

“He’s worked really hard on where he’s at right now through the VFL. His form was good on the weekend and warrants selection.”