Shaun Edwards will play his first senior game for Essendon on Saturday against West Coast.

He and Jobe Watson have been brought in to the side at the expense of Courtenay Dempsey and Tom Bellchambers.

Edwards played 12 games with Greater Western Sydney before joining the Bombers at the end of 2013.

“Shaun’s got a lot pace, a lot of skill.  He’s very smart around goals and he can defend pretty well with his speed,” Essendon Coach James Hird said.

Hird expects the 21 year old to bring some excitement to the forward half when he lines up against the Eagles.

Edwards’ call up comes on the back of a four goal, 22-possession performance last week in the VFL. 

“He’s been outstanding in the last four weeks in the reserves and he’s ready for senior football,” Hird said. 

The former Giant adds to the already youthful flavor in the Bombers side.

Fellow youngsters Zach Merrett and Orazio Fantasia were impressive in team’s loss to Geelong last week.

While Elliott Kavanagh played his best game for the club, gathering 25 possessions. 

“Kavanagh’s form in the VFL was the best it’s been for five, six, seven weeks in a row, so we picked him on form,” Hird said.

“Orazio’s the same – he had four or five really good games. 

“We’re picking players out of the reserves that put consistent performances together, not just one or two.”

Jake Carlisle is set to play extended game time in the ruck with Bellchambers dropping out of the side. 

Joe Daniher will also spend time in the middle as the Bombers look to rebound after the 69-point loss to the Cats.

“West Coast spends more time in their forward half than almost any other side in the competition,” Hird said. 

“Naitanui is obviously a very powerful force for them and their clearance work is outstanding.

“We’re very disappointed with the way we played last week and the boys are keen to atone for that performance.”