Ryan Griffen will captain the Western Bulldogs for the first time in 2014, named as one of three inclusions in the Club’s round two clash against North Melbourne on Sunday.

The 27-year-old joins Liam Jones and rookie elevated Lin Jong who have also been given the nod in the Bulldogs first home game for the year.

The trio replace Brett Goodes, Tory Dickson and Tom Campbell who have been omitted from last week’s side.

Griffen’s addition will bolster the Bulldogs midfield, with the All Australian given the all clear from Club medical staff this week.

Laying 22 tackles across three NAB Challenge games, Jong reminded everyone just how much he thrives on a contest and will add some toughness to the midfield and backline.

Jones has been in scintillating VFL form recently and deserves his chance to transfer his improved defensive and high marking game to the Bulldogs’ forward line.

The Western Bulldogs take on North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday from 4:40pm.

FBPickenRougheadWood
HBJohannisenMorrisMurphy
CCooneyGriffenStevens
HFDahlhausCrameriHiggins
FFHunterStringerGiansiracusa
RMinsonBoydLiberatore
Interchange:WallisMacraeJones
 Jong  
EmergenciesDicksonYoungCampbell