Essendon could be bolstered by the return of Darcy Parish for Saturday’s important clash with St Kilda.

The midfielder hasn’t appeared at AFL level since round 10 due to a niggling calf injury, with a reaggravation of the injury in June delaying his return further.

Following a diligent and gradual rehab process, Parish will undergo a fitness test later this week and could potentially provide a massive boost to the Dons’ on-ball brigade.

In further positive news, Jye Caldwell will also be available for selection following his head knock in Friday night’s loss to the Crows, passing the concussion test after the incident and showing no symptoms in the days since.

However, Matt Guelfi is unfortunately set for a stint on the sidelines after straining his hamstring last week.

The 26-year-old noted some hamstring awareness in the third term on Friday night after a chasing effort on the wing, with follow-up scans on Monday afternoon confirming the full extent of the injury.

At this stage, Guelfi is expected to miss 3-4 weeks.

Read the full injury list below.