All Australian and star defender Sam Taylor returns to the GIANTS’ line-up for Saturday’s blockbuster clash against Melbourne at the MCG on Saturday night.

Coach Adam Kingsley confirmed Taylor’s return on Thursday following training with 104-gamer ready to slot back in after missing five weeks with a groin injury suffered against Port Adelaide in round 15.

Vice-captain Stephen Coniglio will miss Saturday's clash, with the club hopeful the star midfielder will be back to take on Hawthorn next week in Canberra.

”His shoulder is just not quite ready. Hopefully he'll be available next week, I expect he will be, but he's got to get through training next week," Kingsley said.

Taylor returns in place of wingman Isaac Cumming, who is sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury during last week’s win over the Suns.

Jesse Hogan will also take on his former side, in the midst of his excellent campaign that has him just four goals behind Coleman Medal leader Charlie Curnow with 49 majors.

Hogan needs just one more goal to pass his career-best haul in a season.

"He's been outstanding. He's kicking goals but more importantly, he's contributing to other goals. The classic example was handballing off to Aaron Cadman in the goalsquare last week. He's making others around him better," Kingsley said.

The GIANTS take on the Demons on Saturday at 7:30pm at the MCG.