Coming off the back of three straight practice match wins, Essendon VFL has revealed a strong squad for its season opener against Frankston on Sunday. 

Senior-listed Bomber Josh Begley will make his long-awaited return after rupturing his ACL on Anzac Day last year, while Marty Gleeson and Mason Redman will continue to build their match fitness after injury layoffs.

Skipper Aaron Heppell will lead from the backline, supported by Michael Hartley and Ben McNiece making up the last line of defence.

At the opposite end, exciting first-year player Irving Mosquito will start in the forward pocket in just his second red and black appearance, having kicked two goals in the Bombers’ VFL practice match against Sandringham last week.

Kyle Langford, James Stewart and Mitch Brown will feature in their first VFL games for 2019, with the trio among 17 senior-listed Bombers named.

VFL recruits Ray Connellan (St Kilda Saints) and Kurt Aylett (Werribee) have also been named, while Jacob Brown will be the 23rd player.

The Bombers will face Frankston this Sunday from 2pm at Skybus Stadium, with the team to be finalised ahead of the match.

Follow Essendon VFL on Twitter for live match updates.

Essendon VFL's round one line-up:

Brooke Varney is in the final year of her Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree at RMIT University. As part of their strategic partnership, Essendon Football Club and RMIT University are committed to providing opportunities for students, staff, players and the wider community.