Western Bulldogs coach Rodney Eade says Queensland teenager Sam Reid could be a surprise part of the club's AFL finals campaign after being handed an unexpected debut.

The 18-year-old midfielder was named to play against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Saturday, despite being told by Eade earlier in the week not to expect a call-up.

"He said I was brought up in match committee but it was very unlikely that I'd play, then he rang me Tuesday and said I was playing," Reid told the club's website.

"I just sort of said, 'Yeah, sweet,' I was rapt."

Eade was attracted by the youngster's hard-at-it approach, a quality that could see him retain his spot for the following weekend's qualifying final against Hawthorn, despite his inexperience.

"There's no doubt that he's in consideration for the final as well, it's certainly a great opportunity for him," the coach said.

"If he gives us what we think he's got to offer and if he delivers that on the day, he brings a harder edge for a younger guy, so if he can bring that it'll give him a good chance of playing the next week."

Eade said Reid would spend time in the midfield, but could also be used in defence if needed.

Reid, from Caloundra, was picked up by the `Dogs at No.35 in last year's national draft.

The Bulldogs also regained classy defender Lindsay Gilbee from injury for the Crows clash, with Callan Ward and Andrejs Everitt the players dropped.

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