The GIANTS have added three emerging youngsters to their side for Thursday night’s blockbuster clash with the Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium.

Leek Aleer will return to the side after being rested in last week’s spicy Sydney Derby showdown.

The key defender will make a seamless return to the star-studded backline aiming to shut down the Dogs’ high-powered forward line led by Sam Darcy and Aaron Naughton.

Pressure forward Harvey Thomas will return to the forward line, looking to inject his speed and creativity ahead of the football.

Thomas returns to Adam Kingsley’s side after some stellar VFL form, backing up a near best-on-ground 17-dispoal, three-goal game a fortnight ago against Essendon with 21 possessions and five tackles in another strong VFL performance last weekend against the Swans.

Midfielder Harry Rowston has also been named, returning for his seventh AFL game of the season.

The hardworking midfielder has put together a strong patch of form in the VFL in recent weeks, showcasing his ability around the contest and impressive running capacity.

His inclusion adds valuable support to the midfield group and provides another inside option against the Bulldogs’ talented on-ball unit.

The young trio enter the side in place of Toby Greene (suspension) and injured duo Josh Kelly (calf) and Jack Buckley (calf).

With both Greene and Kelly out of the side, Stephen Coniglio will captain the side this week.

The GIANTS return to the main stage to take on the Bulldogs in a season-defining clash at Marvel Stadium on Thursday night.