Essendon will hold a special open training session on Thursday as the team returns to the track for the first time since the CAS decision.

Training will begin at 9:45am and Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell said the the support from fans would provide a much needed boost for the players.

“I’d love to see as many fans as possible get down here to show their support,” he said.

“I know that fans will be feeling a mixture of emotions ranging from real anger at the decision, the process, the Club but the support for the players is what we want to see.

“They need the support more than anyone and I know they’ll see it tomorrow.”

Bombers fans have rallied around the Club since Tuesday’s announcement with the membership hotline inundated.

“Our members and fans have just been unbelievable and in the last 48 hours to have 1500 members sign up is really touching,” Campbell said.

“It shows the passion and the loyalty that the fans have for this football club and what it means to them. 

“We’re really appreciative of that support and I know we’ll have some challenges ahead but there will also be some good times ahead and even in the short term.

“I look forward to that journey and thank fans from the bottom of our hearts as a Board, as an Executive and as a Football Club and I know it means an enormous amount to the players.”

To sign up as an Essendon member click here.