Setanta O’hAilpin has been named in the Greater Western Sydney GIANTS final 22 man squad to play Melbourne at the MCG this Sunday.

O'hAilpin, who has not played for nearly 12 months since undergoing a knee reconstruction, is one of eight inclusions for the GIANTS.

O’hAilpin has been named at full forward in place of Jon Patton, who’ll miss the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Midfielder Rhys Palmer also returns to the squad after a calf injury, while Jacob Townsend, Nick Haynes, Sam Frost and Anthony Miles have all been rewarded for strong form for the UWS GIANTS in the NEAFL.

GIANTS Head Coach Kevin Sheedy says O’hAilpin deserves his spot back in the team.

“He (O’hAilpin) kicked five goals last week and has been in very good form in the NEAFL,” Sheedy said.

“It’s a shame we lose (Jon) Patton but I’ve got faith that Setanta can do the job for us up forward.”

Ruckman Dean Brogan and small forward Devon Smith will miss the match due to suspension, while Curtly Hampton and Will Hoskin-Elliott have been omitted.

Sheedy says the three forced changes will see the GIANTS bring in some fresh young talent.

“It’s great to have guys like Anthony Miles and Jacob Townsend playing well in the NEAFL and pushing for selection, and they’ve earned their spot in the squad,” Sheedy said.

“Along with guys like Nick Haynes and Sam Frost, It’s going to revitalise the team that performed alright for three quarters in round one, and a half in round two before a disappointing showing last week.

“It’s going to be a tough challenge against the Demons. It’s an important game for us at the MCG and we want to play well in Melbourne,” he said.

Tim Golds, Adam Tomlinson and Lachie Plowman have all been named as Emergencies after being named in the GIANTS extended 25-man squad on Thursday night.

GWS GIANTS v Melbourne