Essendon Coach John Worsfold expects this week’s game against West Coast to provide the strongest indication so far of where his side sits.

The Bombers have registered a ten-goal win and an 87-point loss in their two NAB Challenge outings.

Worsfold has picked his strongest squad of the pre-season campaign as Bombers season opener against Gold Coast draws closer.

“This game will probably be the best indication we get,” Worsfold said.

“We had a relatively inexperienced side out last week and we played an inexperienced side in the first NAB Cup [game].

“Both teams having stronger line-ups is a great opportunity for us to practice what we’re working on and see where we sit.” 

James Kelly and Mathew Stokes will play their first games of the pre-season. 

The former Geelong players joined the Club as new recruits earlier this year. 

The match marks the first time Worsfold will front his former side as an opposition Coach.

But he isn’t letting that distract him from the task at hand.

“I know all of the guys so well, I know the club so well,” he said.

“But you don’t sit here wondering what they’re doing, you sit here focusing on what we’re trying to achieve and what we’re working on.

“There’s no emotion really involved in it.”