Young Essendon fan James McQuilllan dropped by the True Value Solar Centre on Friday to check in on the progress of his favourite side.

McQuilllan is continuing his rehabilitation from a freak accident in April this year in which he sustained a serious spinal cord injury.

The inspiring young man watched on from the sidelines during the team’s main training session of the week as part of the 2015 pre-season training.

After training many of his heroes stopped by for a chat including coach James Hird, captain Jobe Watson and star duo Brendon Goddard and Dustin Fletcher.

Accompanied by his family, McQuillan joined the club’s playing group for lunch in the player’s lounge.

Click here to view James’ inspiring story as accounted by the club’s television show earlier this season.