Essendon will have its first competitive hit-out of the year when it takes on Melbourne in a public practice match at Casey Fields on Friday.

The game will serve as a final tune-up before the Bombers' Marsh Community Series, which begins next week against the Eagles.

Find out what we can expect during the Marsh Series...

Game 1: v West Coast, Mineral Resources Park (4.40pm AWST, Thursday, February 27)
Game 2: v Geelong, Central Reserve (4.40pm AEDT, Monday, March 9)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Harrison Jones: Pick No.30 in last year's draft, Jones could play his way into a round one spot as a key forward with a strong showing against two of the League's best backlines.

Brandon Zerk-Thatcher: He looms as a key defender of the future for the Bombers, which would allow for more flexibility for Cale Hooker. 

Andrew Phillips: The former Blue will be Essendon's main ruck option with Tom Bellchambers and Sam Draper injured. One for Fantasy coaches to keep an eye on.

WHAT'S NEW

Dylan Clarke might be freed up more in the midfield and used as a ball-winner rather than a tagger. He's worked on his repeat sprints in an effort to have more of an impact after the clearance is won. Devon Smith is returning and will likely play heavy midfield minutes, while the club is interested in throwing forwards like Orazio Fantasia off half-back and putting Conor McKenna (if he plays) up forward.

MISSING

Dyson Heppell (foot), Cale Hooker (hip), David Zaharakis (knee), Tom Bellchambers (knee) and Michael Hurley (shoulder) are close to re-joining the main group, but unlikely to be ready for the Marsh Community Series. Noah Gown (foot), Joe Daniher (groin), Lachie Johnson (knee), Mitch Hibberd (knee), James Stewart (groin) and Sam Draper (knee) are set for longer stints on the sidelines. Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (calf) looks like he'll play at least one pre-season game.