Lezius, who coached the Blues last season, played seconds a fortnight ago before playing his first senior match last week against Border-Walwa.

In a further bonus, Steele crosses to Cudgewa after playing four matches for Mitta United reserves. He also played his first senior match last week against the Magpies.

Blues coach Bill Deery said the undefeated ladder leaders would field its strongest line-up of the season when it travelled to Bullioh clash with the league heavyweight Bulldogs on Saturday.

“Getting an experienced player like Aaron back is fantastic for us,” Deery said.

“He will slot into our defence and can also rotate through the midfield and up forward.

“Brad is also a bit of a swing man with a bit of height. He will be handy because we haven’t got many talls.”

Cudgewa can take a big step towards the minor premiership and gain a psychological boost with a win against Bullioh.

The Blues have emerged as the form side after reeling off eight straight wins — Bullioh is the only team to get within four goals of the flag favourites.

They have built an eight-point buffer over second-placed Corryong with Bullioh a further game back in third spot.

Deery said any talk of the Blues having a stranglehold on the minor premiership was premature.

“We’re not worried about finishing on top and just want to make the finals,” he said.

“But the way we are travelling, it looks like we could finish top two and recent history says you have to make the top two to win the grand final.”

Tumbarumba will be desperate for victory against Federal at Tumbarumba as it battles to stay in touch with the top four.

Corryong should have little trouble disposing of Border-Walwa at Corryong.