Michael Hurley is ready to fill the void left by Jake Carlisle when Essendon take on St Kilda on Sunday.

Carlisle is out for around four to six weeks after injuring his ankle against Hawthorn.

Having spent significant parts of his career in the forward half, Hurley shapes as a potential replacement.

“Not overly sure just yet,” he said. 

“The coaches have a planning meeting this afternoon and they’ll toss up whether that want me back or forward but I think there is a fair chance I’ll be forward this week.”

Hurley has kicked 103 goals in his career but only four in the last 18 months as he’s found a permanent role in defence. 

“I enjoy the challenge.  It has been a while since I’ve been down there; I think I’ll be a bit rusty.

“To get back down there and play with Joey will be good fun.” 

Hurley has kicked bags of six and five goals before, as well as half a dozen hauls of four.

“You’ve got six forwards and all have to play a role so I’ll just go down there and try to play my part.

“You just have to be flexible.  Last week, we had Jobe and BJ down there.  This week it might be me or Gwilty… you sort of have to role with the punches.”