The Brisbane Lions will welcome two familiar faces back into their side when they play the GWS Giants on Saturday at the Gabba.

Midfielder Rhys Mathieson and forward Josh Walker have both been named for the first time since Round 4’s loss to Richmond.

Both have earned the call-up from Senior Coach Chris Fagan after impressive performances in the Lions' NEAFL side.

Dan McStay has been ruled out of Saturday’s clash against the Giants due to a shin injury suffered in Round 12’s loss to Essendon.

Lions Medical staff had hoped the injury would heal in time for Saturday’s game but believe McStay is still another one to two weeks away.

Utility Ben Keays has been omitted.

Saturday is a big day for the Lions, with the NEAFL team playing their first curtain raiser at the Gabba for the 2018 season. Bounce is at 12:55pm. Match day information regarding the curtain raiser is available here

Earlier that morning, the Lions AFLW side will play their second Winter Series match against the GWS Giants North at Aspley (Graham Road) at 11am.

IN: Rhys Mathieson, Josh Walker

OUT: Ben Keays (Omitted), Dan McStay (Injured)