The Sydney Swans have some big inclusions for their trip to Brisbane for Thursday night footy against the Lions with midfielder Errol Gulden making his long-awaited return and defender Tom McCartin also included in the side.

Ruck Pete Ladhams has also been rewarded for his strong VFL performances, included for his second senior game of 2026. Coming out of the side are Harry Kyle (omitted), Matt Roberts (omitted) and Hayden McLean (omitted).

Gulden returns from a shoulder injury which has left him sidelined for the past three months, the injury sustained in Round 1 against this week's opponents, the Lions. McCartin returns after a concussion sustained in Round 14 against St Kilda which saw him miss the match against Port Adelaide.

Speaking to Fox Footy's AFL 360 on Tuesday evening, Gulden said he is well prepared and excited to be back doing what he loves.

"We had match sim on Friday before we had the weekend off so just had to get through that, get some minutes through the legs, some training sessions with contact and then some strength metrics in the gym," Gulden said.

"I ticked it all off and got through training again on Monday and now just counting down the days and hours until Thursday night. I can't wait, I will probably struggle to sleep the next couple of nights.

"It's my favourite thing, to be out there with the boys competing and what better challenge than going to the Gabba and playing a team that are hungry and over the last two years have proven to be the best team in the competition. It's going to be a challenge and I cannot wait."

Senior Coach Dean Cox said he was thrilled to have Gulden back in his side after a long stint on the sidelines.

"He's put in a lot of work in and we have really missed him," Cox said.

"He's an unbelievable footballer, incredibly hard working and a leader of this football club so it's really exciting to have him back."

Cox also touched on the return of Tom McCartin, who is having a stellar 2026 season down back for the Swans.

"Tom went through the (concussion) protocols then trained as well as he possibly could and we are really excited to have him back because what he does behind the ball for us is really important for us."

Cox and his side are prepared for a tough contest against the Lions on their home deck on Thursday.

Like the Swans, Brisbane had the bye last week but the reigning premiers are finding some form and sit just one game outside the top six after back to back wins against Gold Coast and Richmond prior to their weekend off.

"We expect them to play the way they have the last three of four years, they are starting to build into that form and they have had a break to reset," Cox said.

"It's a tough spot to win (in Brisbane) and what they can do around the contest is as good as anyone, if not the best in the competition and we need to be aware of that."

First bounce for the game is 7.30pm AEST and will be live on Channel 7, Fox Footy and Kayo Sports.