The 2017 AFL fixture will be released on Thursday morning.

Clubs have been submitting their fixture requests to get the best on-field and financial outcomes.

Friday night fixtures remain at the top of club wish lists, while six-day breaks and travel in consecutive weeks are on the nose.

What they'll want: The Bombers were keen to have a round one blockbuster against a Victorian team and have had that wish granted, opening their season on Saturday night at the MCG against Hawthorn.

The club has also asked for its 'Country Game' against Geelong to be in May and to coincide with the bye in country leagues around Victoria so the community can be more involved in the pre-match festivities at the MCG.

For that reason, the Bombers are hopeful the game will be played at night.

Those two big clashes, paired with Essendon's regular Anzac Day and Dreamtime at the 'G marquee games, make for a big and busy start to the club's season.

There will be no change in the Bombers' split of seven home games at Etihad Stadium and four at the MCG for next year.  

The game the fans will be looking for: It is hard to go past round one for Bombers fans. The return of their players against their arch rivals will make for a huge night for the club as it looks to start a new, fresh era.

The Dreamtime at the 'G fixture will again be a highlight. Picture: AFL Photos