A thriving Caleb Marchbank is readying himself for another courageous performance as the Blues prepare to take on Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday.

As the Round 6 AFL NAB Rising Star nominee, the 20-year-old defender has established himself as one of the new pillars in Carlton’s defence and is eagerly awaiting the chance to face his club’s rivals this weekend.

“I’m really looking forward to (experiencing) the atmosphere and the great rivalry between the two clubs,” Marchbank told the media on Tuesday.

“There’ll be no better place to be on Saturday playing against Collingwood hopefully in front of 80,000 people … It’s going to be exciting.”

Across the first six rounds of the competition the new Blue impressed with his footy smarts and his ability to take strong intercept marks.

After another solid performance in Carlton’s 19-point win over the Swans at the weekend, Marchbank was rewarded with a nomination for the 2017 NAB AFL Rising Star Award.

The talented tall collected 21 disposals and took 10 marks, only two short of Carlton stars Sam Docherty and Kade Simpson with 12 marks.

“I’m very privileged to get the nomination this week,” Marchbank said.

“It’s a massive honour.”

Following his sixth consecutive game for Carlton, Marchbank spoke highly of senior coach Brendon Bolton who is amid his second season at the helm.

According to the former Giant, the empathetic nature of his new mentor has had a positive influence on his on-field output this season.

“Coming from a teaching background he’s (Bolton) been super to me helping with my game,” he said.

“He’s a bloke that listens to you. He’s been really good for me.”

Marchbank will look to perform strongly again when the Blues go head-to-head with the Magpies from 2:10pm on Saturday.

To witness the youngster in action, click here.