Dees, Magpies swing changes for AFL blockbuster

Shane McAdam has been axed in one of four changes Melbourne made for the King's Birthday clash. (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

Under-fire Melbourne have axed boom recruit Shane McAdam among four changes for their AFL King's Birthday blockbuster against Collingwood.

Desperate to bounce back from their thrashing by Fremantle last time out, the Demons have cut Adam Tomlinson, Taj Woewodin and former Adelaide goalkicker McAdam.

Experienced wingman Lachie Hunter (calf) is also out through injury, while young key forward Jacob van Rooyen returns for Monday's MCG showdown after overcoming an adductor issue.

Jack Billings, Bailey Laurie and Blake Howes have been recalled for Melbourne, who have slipped out of the top eight after losing three of their past four matches.

Injury-hit Collingwood have also dropped out of the finals places after having their eight-match unbeaten streak - which included two draws - ended by the Western Bulldogs last round.

The Magpies have regained Will Hoskin-Elliott from a hamstring issue, while Nathan Kreueger has been called up for his first senior game in more than 13 months.

Kreuger, 24, has battled a succession of injuries since crossing from Geelong at the end of 2022, adding just seven AFL games to the two he played with the Cats.

The versatile tall replaces out-of-favour forward Ash Johnson, who was axed after gathering just four disposals against the Bulldogs. Wil Parker has also been dropped.

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