Star Bomber Dustin Fletcher will play against Brisbane in two weeks time after x-rays today cleared him of any break in his hand.
Fletcher injured the hand just prior to half-time in the game against Fremantle and he did not return to the field.
The x-rays revealed Fletcher had severe bruising in the hand and, importantly, that there had been no break to any bones.
Fletcher is now expected to train next week and play against Brisbane. It is important news for the Bombers who will have to deal with the dangerous two-pronged attack of Jonathon Brown and Daniel Bradshaw.
Essendon’s injury situation is improving. Jay Neagle – a late withdrawal from the Fremantle game with ankle soreness – is expected to be fit to play against Brisbane as is Bachar Houli (groin) and Henry Slattery (cheekbone). Darcy Daniher could also return from a back injury.
Heath Hocking is also expected to make his long-awaited return to football following groin surgery. It was supposed to happen last weekend but club medical staff opted to take a conservative approach with him.
Jason Winderlich’s season is over because of a back injury and he underwent surgery today. Medical staff report the operation went to plan. Courtenay Dempsey (shin) could be back in action within two weeks while Jason Johnson is another month away after aggravating a calf injury. A time frame for the return of Scott Gumbleton (collarbone) has not been set.
