Western Bulldogs coach Rodney Eade has full faith in Dream Team selectors and medical staff to make the right call on his gun midfielder Adam Cooney.
Cooney is battling an ankle injury in the build-up to Saturday night's showdown with Victoria at the MCG.
Eade spoke to Cooney, the Brownlow Medal favourite, on Thursday morning and told him if fit the South Australian should play.
With Victoria and Geelong coach Mark Thompson ruling out Cats star Gary Ablett, Eade said he did not fear a conflict of interest at the respective selection tables.
"It seems like all the players really want to play and I would have thought Gary would have wanted to play but he's got a bit of concern with his calf," Eade told the media at Whitten Oval on Thursday.
"Mark's a man of very high character so I would have thought he'd play if he was right but obviously he's not."
Eade said he would want midfield dynamo Cooney - one of five Bulldogs in the two squads - to miss the star-studded clash 'only if he's carrying an injury'.
"He has been (carrying an injury) for a few weeks but from all accounts it's improved," Eade said.
"I spoke to Adam this morning and he's pretty keen to play. As I have said all along, to him as well, that if he's right he should play. It's a great experience for him."
"I think for all younger players who haven't experienced State of Origin footy, it's a great experience," Eade added.
"It will certainly be great for Ryan Griffen, it'll be great for Daniel Cross, Robert Murphy is desperate to play."
"Even Matthew Richardson, who has played before and is 33, is really keen to play. I think people have underestimated the pull of getting on the big stage."
Eade will attend the MCG on Saturday night and expects a range of emotions as he watches the reincarnation of interstate battles.
"I hope we see a great game for the spectators. I think the game, if it can be a good game, will be a great spectacle and great for Australian Rules and the concept of State of Origin footy," he predicted.
"I hope our players play well, hope they can get a touch and enjoy the experience."
"And part of me will keep my fingers crossed that they don't get injured."