Carlton

However, there is good news on the injury front for the Blues, with former captain Marc Murphy and key defender Liam Jones nearing recovering from respective setbacks.

Stocker, 19, missed last Saturday's upset victory over Brisbane due to the foot injury, having previously played in five successive games after making his senior debut last month.

The rebounding defender, who the Blues traded up to secure in last year's NAB AFL Draft, was averaging 13.6 disposals per game and had impressed the club with his kicking ability.

Carlton will field a far stronger team against Sydney than they did against Essendon, with young star Patrick Cripps set to join veterans Matthew Kreuzer, Dale Thomas, Bryce Gibbs and Andrew Walker for Friday night's NAB Challenge match at Etihad Stadium.

While decision-making and control were aspects of the Blues' game in short supply in their 60-point loss to Essendon at Ikon Park, Weitering was singled out by his coach after shining in his first competitive hit-out with the club.  

It was a performance that charmed the crowd of more than 18,000 and should all but seal the No.1 draft pick's place in the Blues' backline when they take on Richmond in round one.