WESTERN Bulldogs youngster Sam Reid thought his hopes of making his AFL debut this season were dashed.

He knew his name was in the mix after another polished display for Williamstown in the VFL last weekend, but wasn’t entirely sure whether it would be good enough to see him elevated.

Especially with senior coach Rodney Eade wanting to get his squad in order on the eve of the finals.

"He said I was brought up in match committee but it was very unlikely that I’d play and then he rang me Tuesday and said I was playing," Reid told westernbulldogs.com.au on Thursday afternoon.

"I just sort of said, 'Yeah, sweet' … I was rapt."

The 18-year-old is somewhat of a surprise inclusion for Saturday's clash with the Adelaide Crows at AAMI Stadium.

The hard-at-it midfielder, the 35th pick in last year's NAB AFL Draft, has finally earned a chance to impress at the top level and will replace Callan Ward.

Reid's father Jeff and younger brother Ben will make the trip from Caloundra, Queensland while an uncle will travel from Cairns to watch the newest Bulldog take his first steps on an AFL field.

But Reid hoped his family wouldn't have to come so far to watch him make his debut.

"My goal was to play the game against Brisbane up there (in round 20)," he said.

"[I’m] obviously from up there, so that was my goal but I had a few setbacks … so I’m pretty happy to get a game as late as it is."

And while some may doubt the chances of a first-gamer retaining his spot for a qualifying final the following week, Eade reveals Reid isn't in this week's 22 to make up numbers or give regulars a breather.

"There's no doubt that he's in consideration for the final as well," Eade said.

"It’s certainly a great opportunity for him.

"If he gives us what we think he’s got to offer and if he delivers that on the day … he brings a harder edge for a younger guy, so if he can bring that it’ll give him a good chance of playing the next week."

Eade said Reid – who could be likened to a young Daniel Cross, although slightly taller – deserved his place in the Bulldogs’ senior line-up after several impressive performances in the midfield for Williamstown.

He can expect a similar role against the Crows this weekend.

"No doubt he’ll play in the centre square at times, on a wing and he can play back as well," Eade said.

"So he’s got a few strings to his bow."