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AFL finals: Fremantle to recall Judd McVee at Brandon Walker’s expense for semifinal clash against Geelong

Fremantle defender Brandon Walker won’t play in Friday night’s semifinal clash against Geelong. See who Justin Longmuir has confirmed as his replacement here!

Headshot of Mitchell Woodcock
Mitchell Woodcock
The West Australian
AFL coaches maintain a group chat administered by the Coaches Association, which remains relatively quiet with minimal banter between the ten coaches.

Judd McVee will earn a shot at redemption after being axed for Fremantle’s finals opener, with the defender a confirmed inclusion to replace Brandon Walker in Friday night’s semifinal clash.

Dockers coach Justin Longmuir on Thursday revealed McVee would take Walker’s place for the Optus Stadium blockbuster against Geelong.

McVee has been twice dropped in the space of a month after being a permanent fixture in defence for most of his first season in purple since crossing from Melbourne.

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Judd McVee has been recalled.
Judd McVee has been recalled. Credit: Janelle St Pierre/AFL Photos/via Getty Images

Longmuir said he wanted McVee to focus on contested footy and to “trust himself” upon return to the line-up.

“I think when he’s playing is best footy, he’s playing on instinct and trusting his ability,” Longmuir said.

Walker struggled upon return last week for his first AFL match since Fremantle’s season opener. Hawthorn ace Nick Watson had a significant impact on the game before Walker was forced to make an early exit with an ankle injury.

The Game AFL Finals 2026

Longmuir was coy on any other potential changes for Friday night, saying there “may be” further moves.

More to come

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