Essendon midfielder Dylan Shiel says a patient approach has paid off for comeback star Joe Daniher, who is set to play his third game in 11 days against Geelong at the Gabba on Sunday.

Daniher made his long-awaited return from persistent groin issues against Hawthorn in round 13, starring with four goals after more than 15 months on the sidelines.

He backed that up five days later against West Coast, taking six marks but having his influence diminished by inaccurate goalkicking (0.3). 

"I think he's pulled up really well after the Eagles game and should be fine to go again this Sunday," Shiel told RSN 927 on Thursday.

"He's spent a lot of time doing a lot of work. The club took the slow approach with Joe to make sure that when he was back playing footy, he wasn't in for week and out for one week, and that he was back to play full-time.

"Everyone is super grateful for the work that Joe has put into his rehab and his body. We're just really happy for him that he's able to get out there and do what he loves.

"It can be pretty challenging spending such a long time out of the game, particularly if you're the type of player Joe is, knowing you can have such a big impact on the performance of the team. We've certainly missed him in the previous months."

The Bombers fielded their strongest line-up of the season in their 15-point loss to the Eagles, with their full contingent of All Australians - Daniher, Shiel, Dyson Heppell, Jake Stringer, Cale Hooker, Michael Hurley and Zach Merrett - playing together for the first time since round nine last season.

They'll likely need to navigate the rest of the season without young gun Andrew McGrath, however, who suffered an ankle injury in the second term and ended the game on crutches.

Shiel said it was a bitter blow for the 22-year-old, who has had a stellar season in midfield to be a leading contender for the Crichton Medal.

"It's really unfortunate what happened to him with his ankle. We're really going to miss him. He's so important to us," he said.

"He's taken another step forward in his development. It's a reflection of the work Andy puts in behind the scenes that a lot of people don't see. He's a true professional in the way he goes about not just his footy, but his life as well."

The Bombers will release their round 16 injury update today.