MITCH McGovern has been named to return for Carlton’s Round 6 clash with St Kilda.

A late exclusion last weekend after experiencing calf tightness in the pre-game warmup, McGovern got through his training unscathed this week to put his hand up for selection.

He’s a welcome addition against the table-topping Saints, having starred in his last game in Round 4: he recorded a career-high 27 disposals under the roof against North Melbourne.

McGovern adds to Carlton defensive reinforcements alongside Alex Cincotta, who was named to debut earlier on Friday.

The running defender becomes the Blues’ fourth debutant of the season, continuing a stunning few months for the Carlton Reserves graduate after he was signed as the final player on the Club’s list back in February.

After starting last week as sub, Josh Honey has been elevated into the starting 22 to give the Blues some extra dash on a fast deck at Marvel Stadium.

Adam Saad comes out of the side with a hamstring injury, while Tom De Koning has been managed. Lachie Plowman has been omitted. 

De Koning and Plowman have been named as emergencies alongside Brodie Kemp and Lochie O’Brien: one will be announced as sub an hour before the bounce.

The game will also mark Adam Cerra’s 100th at the level. Having started his career at Fremantle, the Eastern Ranges product has been a consistent contributor in the midfield for the Blues ever since arriving at IKON Park at the end of 2021.

Sunday’s game kicks off from 3:20pm AEST at Marvel Stadium.

In: Cincotta, McGovern
Out: Saad (hamstring), De Koning (managed), Plowman

After starting last weekend as substitute, Josh Honey has been elevated into the 22.