Essendon’s first round draft selection Joe Daniher is only a week away from returning to full training following minor knee surgery prior to Christmas.

The 18-year-old has been on a modified training program since going under the knife to clear a loose body around his knee.

“He is about a week off joining in full training which means he is progressing really well,” said Essendon General Manager – Football Danny Corcoran.

“Joe had surgery to remove a loose body on the outside of his knee but there is nothing major in terms of structural damage going forward.”

“He completed virtually the full pre-season, looks terrific and hopefully he will play some AFL footy this year.”

Key forward Scott Gumbleton, who has a minor hamstring setback in December is also set to be ready for the club’s opening NAB Cup game in under a month.

“He resumed back into full training after the Christmas break ready to go.”

“After a session on the Monday he pulled up a little bit sore so we will just back track him a little bit to make sure he is ready for the NAB Cup,” Corcoran said.

The club’s opening NAB Cup game is against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium on Friday 15^th February.