GIANTS Academy graduate Josh Fahey will make his AFL debut as the tactical substitute in Saturday’s match against Geelong.

The second-year Canberra product was selected at pick 42 in the 2021 AFL Draft when the GIANTS matched an Academy bid from Melbourne and missed the second half of last season after undergoing a shoulder reconstruction.

This season in the VFL Fahey is averaging more than 31 touches a game, including collecting 43 disposals in the win over Sandringham last weekend.

Fahey travelled with the team to Geelong on Friday as one of multiple emergencies and was shocked when fellow Canberran Tom Green announced to the group at Captain’s Run that Fahey will make his debut.

Green said: “You’ve had to work really hard for the opportunity and I’m super excited that I’m going to get to run out with you and all the boys are too.

“We’ve seen the improvement in your professionalism and training standards go through the roof since you first arrived.

“You’ve been absolutely smashing the door down, you’ve really earned your opportunity so I think we’re all super excited to run out with you.”

Coach Adam Kingsley said it is a just reward for Fahey’s VFL form.

“Josh has been knocking the door down to get an AFL game this season and a spot opened up for him this week as the tactical sub,” Kingsley said.

“After an interrupted season last year, he’s continued to work on his craft across this pre-season and has been in some outstanding VFL form.

“As a young player he’s continuing to work on his game but we’re looking forward to seeing his run and carry and explosive left foot in action in Geelong on Saturday.”

A still surprised Fahey said: “I’m grateful for the opportunity and I didn’t come here to lose.”

The GIANTS take on the Cats at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday afternoon.