Jason Winderlich will play his first senior match of the season against Hawthorn this Saturday.

The veteran last played for the Bombers in the elimination final loss to North Melbourne last season.

“To have him back we’re all very excited about it,” Essendon Coach James Hird said.

Winderlich brings experience and versatility to a Bomber side hoping to rebound after three straight losses. 

He’s proven a match winner inside the forward 50 in the past, but has also excelled setting up play from defence.

“Jase will start across half-back and look to play on one of their small forwards,” Hird said. 

“Obviously with Rioli, Breust and Puopolo and a number of forwards who can kick goals – dangerous team, we need our experienced players back there to try and stop their goals.”

Winderlich has played two matches in the VFL since returning from a back injury.

He's one of five inclusions for the Bombers, who are fresh from the bye round.

“They trained really well today – real excitement around the team,” Hird said.

“Obviously we’re not travelling as well as we would have liked, but we’ve got a chance to play against one of the best teams in the competition this week and take it up to them. 

“We’re confident this week we’ll give a good account of ourselves.”