Jordan Ridley is one of several Dons slated to return following their round 16 bye next week.

The defender is progressing well in his recovery from a hamstring strain and is on track to integrate into full training following this week’s trip to Perth.

Essendon also expect Zach Reid, Saad El-Hawli, Mason Redman and Kyle Langford to be on track for a return in round 17 from their respective soft tissue injuries earlier this season.

First-year tall Kayle Gerreyn suffered a shoulder injury in the third term of last week’s VFL clash with Casey, however scans have cleared him of any structural damage and he is expected to take his place in the VFL match against Frankston at Kinetic Stadium on Saturday night.

Utility Nik Cox fronted the AFL’s Concussion Panel late last week as he looks to overcome his recent troubles with concussion symptoms.

The Club is currently awaiting the full written report from the panel, which will provide further clarity around his situation.