An ability to hold firm defensively has Essendon in a strong position as it aims to secure a finals spot, captain Jobe Watson says.

The Bombers are ranked fourth in the competition for points conceded, having avoided the late-season lapse that has plagued recent campaigns.

The club's improved defensive mindset has kept the Bombers in some games they have struggled in, including last week's come-from-behind win over West Coast.

Another win over Gold Coast at Etihad Stadium on Saturday would all but assure the club of a top-eight place.

But after two demoralising losses in their two most recent finals, elimination defeats in 2009 and 2011, and last year being booted from the September action as part of the supplements saga penalty, the Bombers are concentrating on qualifying.

"It's been 10 years since this club's won a game in the finals, so that's not a successful history," Watson said.

"I've been here for 12 of those years, so I certainly know what it's like to finish in round 22.

"The club is focusing on the Gold Coast, because the Gold Coast give us an opportunity to then be in a position to play finals. That's where our focus is."

Watson returned to the Bombers' midfield last week against the Eagles after a 10-week layoff with a hip tendon injury, kicked the opening goal in the first 13 seconds and collected 30 disposals.

The Brownlow medallist believed he would be able to make an impact after a rigorous training program.

"If we really wanted to push it [I] probably could have come back a week earlier, but it just didn't really make that much sense," he said.

"I had confidence in the way that I prepared and the way my body felt. You never really know for sure, but I didn't want to come in and be a liability to the team. The program that the guys put together, it felt as if I was in physical condition to play."

Jake Carlisle missed last week's game with a back spasm, and completed light duties at training on Tuesday. The important key forward will need to prove his fitness later in the week before being cleared to play.  

"I saw him today, he's looking a lot better," Watson said.

"He'll have to be able to train and know that he can perform at AFL level for him to come into the team."