Essendon isn’t worried about an ankle injury sustained by Michael Hurley during today’s match-play session.

The All-Australian defender was tracking key forward James Stewart on the lead when the pair clipped legs. 

Hurley rolled his ankle and then limped from the field.

High Performance Manager Justin Crow doesn’t expect Hurley’s injury to cause too much disruption.

“He’s putting weight through it and walking around this afternoon,” Crow said.

“We’ll know more about the severity tomorrow but it doesn’t look to be too much of a concern.” 

Zach Merrett picked up a corked thigh during the session while Alex Morgan rolled his ankle in a marking contest. 

Matthew Leuenberger didn’t participate because of illness.

Joe Daniher joined in the later stages of the session and is progressing well after a knee problem.

“Joe is going brilliantly. He’s right where we want him. He’s doing a mix of skills and also building a base for the season,” Crow said. 

“We’ll see Joe doing bits of match-play here and there and bits of skills and running right up to when we’re playing games.” 

Shaun McKernan showed positive signs, pulling down some strong marks during the session. 

The 26 year old underwent wrist and ankle surgery at the end of last year. 

“Shaun has done a great job throughout his rehab,” Crow said. 

“He’s another one who is integrating back into match-play and we saw today that he is right on target.” 

Michael Hartley is on track in his recovery from a hamstring complaint. 

The key defender is expected to join in training next week.

Ruckman Sam Draper joined in the warm-up for the first time today while Tom Bellchambers is progressing well in his rehabilitation following knee surgery.