Josh Wagner, Viv Michie fighting to be elevated onto Melbourne’s senior list

REBOUNDING defender Josh Wagner gets another chance to push his case to replace banned ex-Don Jake Melksham on Sunday.

AFL Round 1: AFL Round 1: St Kilda v Melbourne .Pic Wayne Ludbey. Viv Michie.

REBOUNDING defender Josh Wagner get another chance to push his case to replace banned ex-Don Jake Melksham on Sunday.

Melbourne takes on the Western Bulldogs at Craigieburn, with former primary listed player Viv Michie the other contender to be elevated off the Demons’ rookie list.

Wagner starred with NEAFL club Aspley and was taken at pick No.6 in last year’s rookie draft, with the Demons hoping to use him to bounce off half-back.

The rookie pair seem likely to fight for the single spot on Melbourne’s primary list after its bid to recruit a top-up was knocked back by the AFL.

Former Fremantle onballer Michie played only 11 games in his second year at the Demons last season, but averaged 20 touches in the last four games of the year.

Meanwhile, St Kilda might end up making a needs-based decision as it looks to fill the vacancy left by suspended defender Jake Carlisle.

The Saints may yet wait to elevate ruckman Jason Holmes or small forward Josh Saunders until one is required in the senior team.

Both have been named in the squad to take on the Brisbane Lions.

“We have been given extra leeway to make the call so all the rookie are alive in the race,’’ Saints football boss Jamie Cox said.

“We can keep the position alive for the season so we won’t make the call until we feel the need.

“Holmsey played against the Kangas and will play against the Lions, so he’s well in contention and we would only need to lose one or two small forward for Josh Saunders to come into the picture.”

Holmes had 26 hit-outs against Majak Daw in the first NAB Challenge match, while Saunders won a dozen possessions.

The American played the last three games of the 2015 season but is still likely behind Billy Longer and Tom Hickey in the ruck pecking order.

Originally published as Josh Wagner, Viv Michie fighting to be elevated onto Melbourne’s senior list