Michael Hurley will play his first game in two years after Essendon named the veteran defender to return to its round 23 team.

The Bombers legend has made a stunning comeback and his resilient return to play his 194th game in the final fixture of the season against Richmond will also be his last.

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Hurley's heartfelt retirement speech

Watch the moment Michael Hurley announces his retirement to the playing group.

Hurley's farewell game comes after playing five-straight games in Essendon's VFL side

Young utility Zach Reid will return for his first game since round 13 after a string of strong performances for the club's reserves side.

Coming out of the team is ruckman Nick Bryan (omitted), while Kyle Langford (injured) will miss Saturday's clash after succumbing to knee soreness. 

Essendon's round 23 team

Backs: Jayden Laverde, Michael Hurley, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher
Half-backs: Mason Redman, Jake Kelly, Jordan Ridley
Centreline: Sam Durham, Darcy Parish, Dyson Heppell
Half-forwards: Matt Guelfi, Dylan Shiel, Nic Martin
Forwards: Peter Wright, Jake Stringer, Archie Perkins
Followers: Sam Draper, Zach Merrett, Jye Caldwell
Bench: Massimo D'Ambrosio, Nick Hind, Zach Reid, Andrew McGrath

Emergencies: Menzie, Phillips, Hobbs, Ham

In: Hurley, Reid

Out: Langford (injured), Bryan (omitted)

Last week’s medical sub: Hobbs (unused)