James Polkinghorne is in contention to play his first senior game for Essendon this Sunday.

The former Brisbane Lions player is one of three inclusions in to the Bombers squad for the match against Carlton.

Polkinghorne won the Essendon VFL Best and Fairest last season after a 94 game career with the Lions.

Polkinghorne has shown an ability to split his time between the midfield and forward line.  He kicked 53 goals in his seven years with Brisbane.

The 27 year old has averaged 18 possessions across his three VFL games this season.  The last two matches have seen Matthew Egan’s side record big wins and numerous players put their hand up for a senior spot. 

“There is pressure on guys holding their spot in the side which is great,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.

“He’s played a bit of VFL footy with us after his stint at Brisbane.

“He’s an experienced AFL player.

“He had a bit of a calf injury in the pre-season but he’s back up and playing really good footy at the moment.”

Ryan Crowley’s 30 possession and four goal performance was enough to earn him a spot in the 25 man squad.

Jonathan Simpkin has also been included on the back of good form, including a 32 possession and two-goal effort last week.

“Most of those guys have come off pre-seasons where we’re trying to gauge where they’re at in terms of their AFL fitness,” Worsfold said.

“He’s (Simpkin) had a few hit-outs under his belt now and he’s up running really well so if he comes in we know he’ll give us plenty of run.”

The Bombers will finalise their 22 man side tomorrow.