Michael Long is on the verge of playing his first senior game since round five. Long played against Collingwood on Anzac Day but has not been sighted since after undergoing arthroscopic surgery. The Essendon vice-captain has played the past two and half games in the VFL side and is gradually working his way back to full fitness. Last weekend against Williamstown Long collected 15 possessions but more importantly the touch appeared to have returned. Essendon football manager Matthew Drain said Long is a chance to return to the seniors this weekend.

""He looked pretty good in the VFL side on the weekend and is close to returning,"" Drain said. ""It is a matter of Michael and the selectors being convinced he has the fitness base to enable him to play senior football. We will look at him at training during the week and make a decision.""

Drain said Long has been doing extra running sessions in a bid to get himself right for senior football. ""He is doing everything possible and giving himself every chance of playing this weekend,"" Drain said. ""There is no doubt that a fit Michael Long will be a great boost to the side coming into the finals. His leadership and experience is invaluable.""

The Bombers train at 3.00pm tomorrow at Windy Hill and at noon on Friday before flying to Perth. West Coast might appear to be struggling but the Essendon / Eagles rivalry has grown over the years and they will hit the Bombers hard.