Essendon defender Michael Hurley has been withdrawn from the squad to face the Western Bulldogs this Sunday.

Hurley suffered a knock to his knee in last week's match against Port Adelaide.

Tayte Pears has been brought in to the squad of 25 to replace Hurley.

Jake Carlisle, Adam Cooney, Jake Melksham and Jonathan Giles will play for the Bombers.

The final 22 will be named later today.