Jake Carlisle is expected to return to Essendon’s side to face Geelong tomorrow night after completing training this morning.

Carlisle will be joined along with Paul Chapman boosting the Bombers line up to face the Cats tomorrow night at Etihad Stadium.

“He (Carlisle) ran yesterday, then he’s got to get through today’s session and he’ll play,” Thompson said before training.

Meanwhile Michael Hibberd has recovered well from a heavy knock to his foot last Saturday night and looks set to face the Cats.

“We were worried about him, but he’s pulled up well- he’s going to play,” Thompson said.

“About a day and a half ago all his pain went and he’s ready to go. It’s a good recovery.”

Paul Chapman playing his former club has been a big talking point throughout the week, and the head coach has been in close contact with the former Geelong superstar.

“I’ve been texting him and telling him to keep it all in check, just let it all happen,” he said.

“He’s a good enough player and experienced enough to do that.

“I don’t think Geelong would want him to kick too many goals or have too good of game so he will probably be targeted in some respect.”

After losing to Gold Coast last week, Thompson is well aware of Geelong’s ability to rebound well.

“They’ve got a lot of integrity and a lot of pride,” he said.

"They’re a proud mob; they will certainly come out and play their part.

“As a team they’ve all got to get together and get over the line, because we’re hopefully going to be in good shape.

“We’re going to have to play well to beat them, and that’s what we want to do anyway.

“I think we’ve been working on our game in aspects, and going into the game you’ve got to give people hope and chance and I think our players are confident that they can play well.”