Essendon VFL's task to rectify its heavy loss to Footscray has received a welcomed boost, with a number of key players returning for Saturday’s encounter with top-of-the-table Richmond. 

Senior-listed Dons Ben McNiece, Mark Baguley, Josh Begley, Jayden Laverde have been named in the starting 22, along with David Myers, who sits on the extended interchange. 

Michael Hartley will act as the key-defensive post, while Tynan Smith will start at full-forward alongside Laverde and Irving Mosquito. 

Riley Bowman has been named as first ruck, with Trent Mynott and vice-captain Danny Younan as ruck rovers.

Skipper Aaron Heppell will lead from the back pocket. 

Jordan Ridley, Bruno Laguda, Edyn Sibbald, Dylan Landt, Nino Lazzaro, Josh Tynan and potential first-gamer Dale Marshall round out those on the extended bench.

Former Oakleigh Charger Matthew Day will make his senior debut, having been named the 23^rd player.

The last time Essendon and Richmond met was back in round eight, when the VFL Dons booted four goals to one in the final term to fall just three points short of victory.

A win this time around could potentially see Essendon jump back up into second spot on the ladder, provided both Footscray and Williamstown lose their respective matches. 

The final team will be selected before the first bounce at 2pm on Saturday, August 17 at Windy Hill.

Match updates will be available via Essendon VFL’s Twitter, and a live stream will be broadcast on vfl.com.au.