Defender Jayden Laverde has recovered from his shoulder injury and is pushing to be available for selection ahead of round 11.

The 27-year-old has been recovering from an AC joint ailment sustained in round six against Collingwood but has joined in main training after being labelled as a ‘test’ for this week.

General Manager of Performance Daniel McPherson says Laverde has made a full recovery and is pushing his case to return.

“Jayden has been medically ticked off that he’s recovered from his shoulder injury,” McPherson said.

“We’re working through what his return looks like, but he’s managed to take part in main training to get to a stage where he’s pushing to play.”

Midfielder Dylan Shiel is a test for Saturday’s night’s clash with West Coast after missing last week’s Dreamtime at the ‘G match with a calf complaint.

Shiel was a late withdrawal after failing to prove his fitness and will be a watch and see heading into this week. 

“Dylan unfortunately didn’t pass the fitness test last week,” McPherson said.

“He’s worked his way through training this week, so we’re hopeful he’ll be right, but he’ll be a test again this week.” 

Utility Nik Cox will play his first minutes of 2023 after being deemed available for selection.

The 20-year-old has recovered from a bone stress in his back and will feature for the VFL Bombers this weekend.

 “Nik’s passed all the relevant markers we need for him to play, so he’ll return this weekend,” McPherson said.

“He’ll be on managed minutes in this week’s game, but we’re thrilled to see him back out there.”

Essendon Rd 11 injury list