Dean Solomon will miss the next two matches for the Bombers after slightly straining a ligament in his knee at training this week. Solomon is expected to return for Essendon’s Round 15 match against St Kilda at the MCG.

Meanwhile, James Hird has not been ruled out of this Friday night’s game against the Kangaroos at the Telstra Dome. Hird has struggled with a hamstring injury in recent weeks but the bye has given him some much needed rest and he is still considered some chance of playing.

Rookie player Heath Hocking’s season has unfortunately come to a premature end. Hocking, who has been one of the bright lights for the Bendigo Bombers, has a cracked navicular bone in his foot that will require surgery. The injury isn’t as severe as that suffered by James Hird but it means his season is over.

Courtenay Dempsey will miss the next one to two matches with groin soreness as will youngster Jay Neagle who has a ‘hot spot’ in his lower leg. Medical staff have advised he needs rest to ensure it does not become a stress fracture.