Will the poor start to the season cost the Bombers?

Most likely, yes. It's hard to come back from a 2-6 start to the season and although Essendon has had a strong run of late, winning five of its past six games, it might have left itself too much to do. Essendon has turned around its form and is playing a much more attractive, attacking and cohesive game style. It's a shame it took two months to get going.

Will Joe Daniher play again this season?

Nobody seems to know – or is prepared to answer – this one. The key forward's time on the sidelines dealing with his osteitis pubis is essentially indefinite. He had a slower-than-expected recovery in the first six weeks of being diagnosed, and hasn't played since round seven. In that time the Bombers have leant on Shaun McKernan in attack, who is enjoying a strong patch of form around goal.

Which of the club's trade recruits will prove most successful?

The early nod in this one would be Devon Smith, and the former Greater Western Sydney forward could well take out Essendon's best and fairest in his first season at the club. But Jake Stringer leads the goalkicking with 23 goals and has had a good season at the club, while Adam Saad has been unleashed in recent weeks with his devastating run off half-back. All three shape as successes.