MIDFIELDER Blake Acres will become the fourth Saint to make his AFL debut this year when he runs out onto the MCG for his first game against Hawthorn on Saturday.

Coach Alan Richardson said that Acres’ selection was reward for his outstanding form in the VFL.

“His last three games have been really impressive,” Richardson said.

“His running has been really strong, his ability to play his role whether that be wing or half-back, or even a little bit forward has shown real versatility.

“Long term, he’s going to be a really good player for us, so it’s great for him that he gets his opportunity.”

Selected with pick 19 in the 2013 National Draft, Acres was recruited from West Perth where he made a name for himself as a midfielder, averaging 27 disposals per game in his nine game for West Perth Colts.

A shoulder injury however interrupted the large majority of his season, with surgery being required after playing the final two under-18 championship games for Western Australia.

After landing with St Kilda, Acres has learned his craft in the VFL for Sandringham, playing as a wingman and a half-back flanker as he put together consistently good performances.

Sandringham assistant coach Paul Hudson gave Acres a glowing endorsement when he spoke to SAINTS.com.au on Monday.

“If you talk about guys who have improved over the last few weeks then look at Blake,” Hudson said.

“He’s gone from injured to development squad to one of the best players for us in the VFL.

“He had 21 touches, seven marks and kicked a goal – I mean, this is a guy who is playing either half-back or wing and is a teenager.”

Though it will only be Acres’ first game, Richardson expects that Acres will offer a considerable contribution against Hawthorn on Saturday.

“He’ll have no illusions about his role, we’ll expect him to execute his role and he’ll be important as any other member of the team in terms of commitment to team defence and to win his own footy when there’s a chance to do so.”