Essendon’s injury list should shrink considerably over the coming two weeks with a number of senior players set to return from enforced lay-offs. Adam McPhee (knee), Jason Johnson (foot) and Courtney Johns (hamstring) are all just one week away from resuming while Dean Solomon is expected to be ready to go the following week.

Essendon escaped from its one-point NAB Cup loss to Brisbane without adding further to its injury list. The only players who still face extended periods on the sidelines are Dean Rioli (knee) and Jason Laycock (ankle). Both are progressing well but will struggle to be ready for Essendon’s season opener against the Swans.

Rookie Heath Hocking will miss another 3 weeks with a quad injury while Jay Neagle and Matthew Firman have both recovered from minor quad strains and are will resume full training this week.

Essendon plays Sydney in a practice match at Optus Oval this Friday afternoon. The game will commence at 4pm. Admission is free for EFC members otherwise an adult ticket is $10, concession $5 with children admitted for $2.