Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson says the long-awaited AFL debut of Beau Muston is an example for his team-mates and those outside football about perseverance and self-belief.

Selected in the national draft in 2005, 22-year-old Muston will finally play his first AFL match, against Melbourne on Sunday at the MCG.

Wearing the No.17 jersey previously worn by club legend and former captain Michael Tuck, Muston's first senior appearance has been delayed by three knee reconstructions, including one just before the draft.

However after stringing together four promising matches for Hawks' affiliates Box Hill in the VFL, Clarkson said the call-up is just reward.

"It's really exciting for him and for our footy club," Clarkson said.

"We're really excited with the progress that he's made and his work ethic at training throughout the course of last two or three years, we're excited that he finally gets an opportunity on the big stage."

Taken in the same draft as 2008 premiership heroes Xavier Ellis and Grant Birchall, the speedy midfielder's latest setback was during a NAB Cup pre-season match last year.

Clarkson said it was a testimony to his character that he was able to fight he way back again.

"He's just an outstanding character as a lad," said Clarkson.

"You can probably only endure it at 21, 22 years of age a certain amount of mishap before you'd consider just tossing it all in, but such is the character of the lad that he's persevered.

"He'll slot in quite nicely to our side, he's got great leg speed and we're really excited by what he's going to bring to the club, even if it's just the excitement of seeing a guy who's had to work so hard to get an opportunity.

"I'm sure that the rest of our players will be really keen to do well for him this weekend."

Clarkson believed Muster's accomplishment, and that of young ruckman Max Bailey who also underwent two knee reconstructions, was one those outside the game could also aspire to.

"I think it's a message for all and sundry ... for young players, for people who are even outside the AFL, to have a look at these young lads.

"You persist and persevere and eventually the rewards will come your way if you believe in yourself enough."

In other injury news, Clarkson said Ellis should play for Box Hill this week, while key defenders Stephen Gilham (knee) and Trent Croad (foot) are "starting to get close".

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