LITTLE-KNOWN Docker Ethan Hughes has spent a lot of time playing in the WAFL but that hasn’t stopped Fremantle coach Ross Lyon comparing him to one of the game’s superstars, Nat Fyfe.

Hughes will play just his second AFL game after he was named as one of three changes for Dockers ahead of Saturday night's clash with Greater Western Sydney. And Lyon said Hughes' athleticism was similar to the reigning Brownlow medallist’s.

Hughes, 21, made his debut in round 23 last season against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval when the Dockers rested half their side ahead of the finals series. He gathered 22 disposals and took eight marks in the heavy loss to Port.

He was a bolter in the 2015 rookie draft when the Dockers recruited him with pick No.13 after spending the majority of 2014 playing WAFL reserves for Swan Districts.

He has averaged 21 disposals and seven marks in the WAFL this season and Lyon said he was keen to give him an opportunity.

"He's a really terrific athlete, in the Fyfe mould really," Lyon said.

"Big boy. Runs really well. Competitive winger/half-back. He played against Port last year and really acquitted (himself well). (He's a) clean ball handler."