Essendon midfielder Brendon Goddard says the players have no issue with Coach James Hird’s decision to head overseas during the mid-season break.

Hird flew to Europe following the Bombers match against West Coast.

“It was for his own personal development.  He explained that to us and we have no issue with it,” Goddard told Channel Nine.

“All officials, particularly ‘Craigy’ (Neil Craig – General Manager, Football Performance) and Xavier (Campbell – CEO) were all across it.” 

Hird is completing a business administration course at the world-renowned INSEAD business school. 

Goddard said that kind of professional development would also benefit the players.

The team underwent an intense training session on Saturday under the watchful gaze of the Assistant Coaches.

“It’s not uncommon for Assistant Coaches to run sessions,” Goddard said.

“It was pre-approved, pre-planned and the people at the top, particularly those two that I just mentioned, they knew the whole time.” 

The Bombers play Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday.

David Zaharakis and Heath Hocking are available for selection after overcoming injuries while Jason Winderlich is nearing a return to the senior side after completing two full matches in the VFL.