JOSH Deluca has been named for his senior debut in Navy Blue.

Deluca comes into the side as a late change for Paddy Dow, set to miss the clash with Gold Coast through illness.

The mid-season rookie recruit gets his first opportunity at senior level after an impressive run of form for the Northern Blues.

Over his first three matches for Northern, the Western Australian native averaged 21 disposals and five tackles playing through the centre. 

Interim coach David Teague praised the workrate of the 23-year-old since arriving at the Blues in May, believing he has truly earned his position in the senior team. 

"Josh brings workrate," Teague said.

"The way he has come in and wanted to learn his craft... he has spent more time in the coaches' office than any other player. 

"When he arrived he couldn't play because of his hamstring, but he wanted to know what are the set-ups. Forward, midfield, both roles, asked every week 'what line do you want me to go to?

"He is prepared. He is ready to go." 

The combative midfielder arrived at Carlton after a storied career in the WAFL, an integral member of four premiership-winning sides at two different clubs. 

The Blues will be on the hunt for consecutive wins when it faces the Suns on Saturday afternoon after an inspiring win over Sydney away from home.