Michael Long remains in doubt for this Friday night's clash with the Western Bulldogs after failing to join in full-scale training tonight.

Long practised his kicking for half the session before heading into the gymnasium for the remainder of the night.

Long corked his hip in Essendon's round four clash with Hawthorn and has already missed one match because of the problem.

The match committee might decide not to risk Long this weekend, particularly given the fact the players have a 10-day break before their next encounter against Collingwood on Anzac Day.

Mark Mercuri, who suffered a strained buttock muscle against Carlton, is still rated an excellent chance of playing against the Bulldogs on Friday night.

Mercuri spent last night's session indoors but he appears to have recoevered quickly from the injury.

Dean Rioli also made his first appearance at training since breaking his collarbone against Werribee in a round three VFL match.

Dean completed fitness work indoors and but is still four weeks away from returning.