The Bombers look set to welcome Nathan Lovett-Murray back into the line-up for Friday night's blockbuster with the Bulldogs.
Matthew Knights confirmed the inform 27-year-old has recovered from a foot injury.
“Nathan Lovett-Murray is going to have a real go at today’s training session so we hope he comes up so we can put him into the team,” Knights said to Bomber.tv.
A number of other players are also set to reutrn with Ricky Dyson a possiblity while Kyle Reimers will play in the VFL.
“Ricky Dyson is pushing up pretty well, but we would have thought he is only an outside chance,” Knights said.
“Kyle Reimers has not played for four weeks now so he would more likely to go to Bendigo on Sunday to play in the VFL to get a full four quarters under his belt.""
Andrew Welsh has one more week to serve of his four week suspension.
Knights said that key defender Dustin Fletcher is a near certainty to play, despite suffering back spasms during Essendon’s win over Richmond.
“Fletcher was taken off as a precaution, however his back has freed up nicely and will be fine,"" he said.
""He won’t be doing a lot today but will train on Thursday and will be right to play.”
While he was cleared of any structural damage, Jake Melksham is yet to be ruled out, with a decision to be made later in the week.
“Jake Melksham is probably 50-50 for this week as there is still a bit of soreness and swelling there,"" Knight said.
""We will see how that evolves as the week goes on.""
You can still join the footy tipping and adidas Super Boot and win 'weekly' prizes by clicking here.
Members note: High Mark members will get the chance to hear exclusively from a senior Essendon player before the game this Friday night (Rd 10) in the Laureate Room.
The player will appear at approximately 6.30pm for a Q&A so High Mark members are advised to arrive early.
