With Tyson Miller (shoulder) back at full fitness and Ethan Conway (jaw surgery) expected to return via the development league next week, the Blues have recalled gun midfielder Tim Bristow for Saturday's trip to Kingborough.

The 2011 TSL best and fairest has not played since the round nine win over Glenorchy six weeks ago, and will help cover the loss of tough midfielder and half-back Jack Donnellan.

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Bristow's inclusion was the Blues' sole change with Alec Wright's strong form down back last week keeping experienced defender Simon Vandervelde out of the side.

"[Bristow is] really important for us, he's a real leader on and off the field," Launceston coach Mitch Thorp said.

"He'll play as a midfielder - he's used the time off to get some repeat speed and running work in and he's an elite runner at the best of times, so having that hard body around the footy is important for us.

"There's certainly some competition for spots - particularly when the Devils boys are available as well."

Having been touted to drop off in 2019 following the loss of several big names, the Blues now appear finals certainties and could yet make a play for Glenorchy's third spot.

Thorp said last year's finals series proved that even fifth spot was enough of a platform to make a legitimate play for the premiership.

LAST TIME THEY MET: Launceston v Kingborough at Windsor Park

"I think Lauderdale showed that you just need to qualify to give yourself an opportunity to play off in the last game of the year, and we're just pleased we're in a strong position this far out from the finals," Thorp said.

"We're just trying to continue building our brand whilst getting some games into our next generation.

"Fifteen young blokes have debuted this year and we've probably qualified for finals which is a strong, positive position to be in.

"We just want to win as many games as we can and ideally that would leave us in the top three if we can get the amount of wins required."

Tigers coach Trent Baumeler made three changes to the side that narrowly lost to Glenorchy last week, with key forward Michael Paul headlining the outs.

Tassie Devil Lachlan Gadomski and Will Poland also made way, with Luke Graham, Alexander Bessell and Jack Pearce all included in the 22.

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