Essendon VFL has announced its line-up to face Footscray at Marvel Stadium this Friday.
Young forward Tex Wanganeen makes a long-awaited return after a lengthy recovery from foot surgery in the off-season, set for his first competitive game in 2024.
Dylan Shiel will also bolster the Bombers in the middle of the park, with the experienced midfielder fully recovered from the oblique strain that sidelined him for a fortnight.
The Bombers and Bulldogs' clash will kick off at 4:05pm AEST - fans with a valid ticket for the AFL fixture that night will be able to attend, with gate five open from 3:45pm.
Essendon VFL round three team v Footscray
| B | M. Foley (73) | W. Hoare (51) | L. Hayes (18) |
| HB | L. Lual (34) | C. Gray (81) | S. McKay (80) |
| C | J. Hately (50) | E. Tsatas (5) | A. Roberts (38) |
| HF | T. Wanganeen (40) | N. Caddy (30) | J. Peris (53) |
| F | V. Visentini (39) | S. Weideman (10) | J. Davey (36) |
| R | N. Bryan (24) | D. Shiel (9) | X. O'Neill (55) (C) |
| INT | T. Toma (61) | B. Scott (77) | R. Monti (52) |
| J. Eckersley (58) | O. Smartt (83) | ||
| 23rd Player | O. Smartt (83) | ||
| EMG | R. Brodie (60) | R. Eyre (59) | A. Molan (82) |
| L. Alessio (63) | |||
Ins: Shiel, Wanganeen
Outs: A. Davey, Alessio
