Essendon utility Brendon Goddard says the playing group is focused on ‘controlling the controllables’ ahead of Friday night’s NAB Cup opener at Etihad Stadium.

Goddard, who crossed to the club last year after 205 games for St Kilda, is set to line up for the Bombers for the first time on Friday night against Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs.

But despite his absence last year, Goddard has played a key role in keeping the Bombers focused in the past week.

"As a whole team we've really helped each other in certain situations, particularly the last week, in talking about what we need to do and control what we can control,” Goddard said.

"Understandably the players have been a bit anxious.

"It’s really important for us as a playing group to move on."

Goddard, whose immediate impact at the club was evidenced by his introduction into the leadership group, said the Bombers remained positive.

"At this point in time it's all allegations and at no point can you jump to conclusions," he said.

"[For] supporters it's important to stick by the club because the boys are doing everything they can to prepare for another season of footy and it obviously starts on Friday night."