Tayte Pears could return to the Essendon senior side before the end of the season according to Coach James Hird. 

Injuries and time spent learning a new role in the forward line has meant Pears hasn’t played in the senior side since round 23, 2013. 

“He’s been playing forward in the reserves for most of the year and the last three weeks we’ve had him back,” Hird said. 

“He can play at either end and he’ll get his opportunity in the next few weeks but he was close this week.” 

Ariel Stienberg and James Gwilt will assume the key defensive posts against the Western Bulldogs alongside either Jake Carlisle or Cale Hooker. 

The Bombers boast an impressive recent record over the Bulldogs having won the last five matches between the two sides.

But Hird said this season’s Dogs outfit is a different proposition. 

“It’s definitely a new game, new coach, new game style,” he said.

“The Bulldogs have had a really good season and look to be heading for finals.

“Obviously they’re the favourites to win and we’ve got to be at our best to beat them.” 

The Dons have been strengthened by the inclusions of Carlisle, Jake Melksham, Adam Cooney and Jonathan Giles.

Heath Hocking, David Myers and Paul Chapman could come in to consideration over the coming weeks.

“’Chappy’ played in the reserves last week and played reasonably well,” Hird said.

“We’d just like him to have another game in the reserves and get his body right so he can put himself up for selection in the next few weeks.

“There is no line through anyone particularly a player of Paul Chapman’s quality.”