<h2>Shiel's Final Essendon MCG Game as Merrett Hits 250 - Quick Hands Summary:</h2> <p>-Dylan Shiel set for final Essendon game at MCG against Carlton</p> <p>-Zach Merrett to celebrate 250th AFL game for Bombers</p> <p>-Blues recall Lucas Camporeale, Will White; Experienced, uncontracted defender Mitch McGovern overlooked</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Essendon and Carlton will bring down the curtains of their disappointing 2025 campaigns when they clash at the MCG on Thursday night, with veteran Bomber Dylan Shiel gearing up for a farewell game in front of the home crowd.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Shiel's Essendon Swan Song at the 'G</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>In a bittersweet turn of events, Dylan Shiel is poised to don the red and black for what could be his final appearance at the MCG. The 32-year-old midfielder, who sat out last week due to suspension, has been named in the Bombers' lineup for their crucial clash against Carlton. This selection comes hot on the heels of reports suggesting Shiel and Essendon have mutually agreed to part ways at season's end.</p> <p>The veteran's inclusion adds an emotional undercurrent to an already high-stakes encounter. With whispers of Shiel potentially continuing his career elsewhere in 2026, Bombers faithful will be keen to give their midfield workhorse a fitting send-off.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Merrett's Milestone Match</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Adding to the significance of Thursday night's fixture is Essendon captain Zach Merrett's 250th AFL game celebration. The skipper's return to the side alongside Shiel provides a much-needed boost to the Bombers' engine room after their disappointing loss to St Kilda last round.</p> <p>The duo's experience will be crucial as Essendon looks to finish their 2025 campaign on a high note, with their final match of the season scheduled against Gold Coast next Wednesday.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>More intriguing Blues Changes as defender overlooked</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Carlton, meanwhile, has made some intriguing selection calls of their own. Father-son Lucas Camporeale earns a recall for his first senior appearance since round two, while small forward Will White also returns to the fold.&nbsp;</p> <p>However, the omission of Mitch McGovern has raised eyebrows, particularly given that the defender's contract status remains unresolved beyond this season.</p> <p>The Blues' lineup shuffle comes in response to injuries, with Lachie Fogarty (ankle) and Cooper Lord (concussion) both making way. In a twist of fate, the match will mark Tom De Koning's 100th AFL game, as the free agent mulls over a potential move to St Kilda in the upcoming off-season.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Final Quarter Looms for Both Sides</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>As the home and away season draws to a close, both Essendon and Carlton find themselves at crucial junctures. The Bombers are eager to finish off an injury-ravaged season with a consolation win against the odds, while the Blues will want to close out the season with a second win from two matches against their great rivals this year. A bright spot in a sorry season for Carlton fans.&nbsp;</p> <p>With personal milestones, potential farewells, and the ever-present spectre of trade period intrigue, Thursday night's clash at the 'G promises to be a compelling affair for fans and punters alike.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>