After 21 rounds of Premiership football Leigh Osborne at times wondered whether his opportunity to play senior football might have slipped past him.

But after demonstrating his ability and consistency in the Gold Coast SUNS NEAFL team, the elevated-rookie is set to get his chance on the AFL stage this weekend after being named in an extended squad to play St Kilda at Etihad Stadium.

“I didn’t think I’d get an opportunity this year and I thought my chance might have slipped come Round 21, but I’m rapt to be playing this weekend,” Osborne said.

An ambitious running half-back flanker with a potent left-foot, Osborne arrived on the Gold Coast with a reputation as one of the most highly-rated players in the strong VFL Premiership.

Overlooked in November’s national draft, the former Frankston star was given permission to train alongside the GC SUNS senior squad, where alongside Andrew Boston he earned a spot on the GC SUNS rookie-list.

When told he’d be making his debut against the Saints by Guy McKenna yesterday afternoon, the 23-year-old defender said the senior coach had just one piece of advice for him – enjoy the moment.

“Bluey (McKenna) said it had been a long time coming and that I had earned my spot on the team,” Osborne said.

“He said go out there and enjoy it.”

With a strong contingent of St. Kilda supporters expected flood through the Gates of Etihad Stadium to cheer on their team against the visiting Gold Coasters, Osborne said this weekend was shaping up to be a heated match.

“Given where both teams are placed on the ladder it’s likely to be a pretty close contest,” he said.

“Hopefully we can get off to a strong start and make it difficult for them to kick the winning score.”