Third-year defender Cameron Fleeton will make his AFL debut against Collingwood at the MCG on Sunday afternoon.

Fleeton has starred in the VFL this season, often as the only listed player in the backline, and last week collected 31 disposals and 10 marks in the win over the Footscray Bulldogs.

The 20-year-old has been a mainstay of the VFL side over the past two and a half seasons as he’s developed and worked on his craft.

Over his six games this season he’s led the backline and averaged 24 disposals to add an offensive side to his game.

The players and staff were called together on Friday with mentor and fellow defender delivering the news to an emotional Fleeton.

Coach Adam Kingsley said: “You’ve been knocking the door down for a good part of last year and certainly all of this year.

“You’ve really had to earn your spot but you’re persistent and you’ve played great footy at VFL level and I can’t wait to see you debut on the MCG.”

Fleeton was the second-last selection in the 2020 national draft, picked at number 58.

He is a medium defender who can play tall and small, reads the play exceptionally well and uses his intercept marking and precise left foot to set up play from the back half.

The GIANTS take on the Magpies at the MCG on Sunday with the final team to be named at 5pm on Friday.