Young key defender Zach Reid is nearing a return to action as he overcomes a back injury.

The 21-year-old has been slowly building his fitness after suffering stress fractures during the pre-season.

GM of Performance Daniel McPherson says Reid will continue his reintegration into main training this week, with the aim of playing competitive minutes next week.

“Zach will train with the main group on Thursday, he’ll train again over the weekend, before completing a full week of training next week, with a view to playing,” McPherson said.

 Ruckman Nick Bryan is expected to feature for the VFL Bombers on Sunday after successfully rehabilitating a hamstring strain.

The 21-year-old has begun full training this week and McPherson believes Dons fans can expect to see Bryan face Casey.

“Nick’s progressed well through his rehab and will train fully this week,” McPherson said.

“We expect him to be available to play on the weekend.”

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Rd 4 | Dons' day done with concussion

Sam Weideman has been subbed out with concussion following this incident early in the second term.

Key utility Kaine Baldwin will miss another match as he continues his recovery from concussion suffered in round two of the VFL, while forward Sam Weideman will also miss this weekend with a concussion suffered against GWS.

Essendon round five injury list