HAWTHORN premiership player Xavier Ellis will make his first appearance of 2013 when he lines up for Box Hill on Saturday.

The former number three draft pick has been plagued by injuries for most of his career, impacting his ability to re-capture the form that saw him become a key player in Hawthorn’s premiership year in 2008.

Ellis had an injury interrupted season last year too, but fortunately for him, was fit at the right time of the year.

Despite playing just five matches in 2012, Ellis played in each of Hawthorn’s three finals, including the Grand Final.

He has battled a calf injury that has kept him sidelines this year, but after enjoying a consistent block of training, is set to finally make an appearance for the Club’s VFL affiliate in its Round 7 clash against North Ballarat at Eureka Stadium in Ballarat.

Head of Coaching and Development, Chris Fagan says Ellis is well prepared for his return having been diligent in his rehabilitation process.

“Xavier Ellis is playing with Box Hill this weekend, it’s been a really frustrating few years for Xavier with injuries dogging him,” he said.

“He’s had a few calf problems in recent times but he’s done a really thorough rehab and he’s very much looking forward to playing this week.”

A favourite of Coach, Alastair Clarkson, a fully fit Ellis could again be a wildcard in Hawthorn’s side as it looks to build the edge that will take it deep into September.

Ellis adds depth to the Club’s already deep talent pool, capable of playing in a variety of roles.

“Hopefully at some point in time later in the season challenging for a spot in the team,” Fagan said.

“As we all know, he’s a talented player and all of us coaches and his teammates hope that he doesn’t have any more setbacks and can progress through the season and be a really good contributor for us.”