Despite the VFL bye over the weekend, several Bombers will be staking their claim this week to play on Friday night against North Melbourne.

View the leading candidates that are firming in line and cast your vote or have your say below. 

Elliot Kavanagh

Working hard in VFL early this season, Kavanagh finally broke through to join the AFL side in Round 10. The 22-year-old played the next four games, but was left out of the clash against Melbourne. Despite being omitted, Kavanagh’s solid early season form at VFL level, averaging 21 disposals, will have him in the frame to make a return. 

Kyle Langford

Keeping in line with the ‘Baby Bomber’ regeneration, Langford could be in the mix to return to the AFL side. Ironically, it was in Round Seven against North Melbourne that Langford last played, following his debut against St Kilda in round five. Langford, who averages just shy of a goal a game in the VFL, could be a slick addition to the Bomber forward line.

Jonathan Giles

Giles could be the man who is called upon to combat North Melbourne big man Todd Goldstein on Friday night. The 201cm giant leads the competition for hitouts and is arguably the Kangaroos’ most valuable player and the competition’s most dangerous ruckman. Giles, an emergency last week, could be called upon to help Shaun McKernan nullify Goldstein. Giles is averaging 24 hitouts, 13 disposals and a goal a game in the VFL. 

Conor McKenna

The Irishman continues to be a revelation at Bomberland, kicking 12 goals in nine games this season. At just 19 years of age, McKenna still has a lot of growth to go, but could provide an extra goal kicking option for the Essendon side. Having the ability to kick a freakish goal, McKenna brings ‘x-factor’ and could be an exciting inclusion.