West Australian youngster Jaxon Prior — who was cut by premiers Brisbane last year — will debut for Essendon in a blockbuster Friday night clash.

The Bombers take on modern rivals Essendon in a drawcard round-one fixture expected to draw a bumper crowd of above 85,000 to the MCG.

Prior — the son of former Essendon and West Coast player Michael — made 39 appearances for the Lions across four years but was delisted at the end of their premiership campaign.

“Jaxon’s Dad played 81 games for Essendon, so didn’t play enough games to qualify Jaxon as a father-son, but eventually he comes back to Essendon,” coach Brad Scott said.

“He is a player that has fit into our system really well. I think he was very, very unlucky not to be part of a very, very good Brisbane side. He was only kept out of that side by some very good players.

“We had a really identifiable need for the type of player that he is and he has fit in really well ... he has earnt his spot.”

The 23-year-old had 13 touches and took seven marks playing down back for the Bombers in a pre-season win over Geelong a fortnight ago.

Scott said he thinks Prior could also be used through the midfield or on a wing this season.

“He is a beautiful distributor of the ball, so we like him kicking the ball inside-50,” he said.

“We have identified he can do all of that for us, but he has played predominately in defence this pre-season.”

Their Opening Round clash with Gold Coast was pushed back to after the final round of the season.

Isaac Kako will also debut for the Bombers against the Hawks.