As many as five Essendon players may take on Ireland at the International Rules Series later this year after it was announced an Indigenous All-Stars team would represent Australia in the two-test tour of Ireland.

In response to flagging interest from players and supporters, the AFL hopes to reinvigorate the series by selecting a team made up entirely of indigenous footballers.

Essendon has five indigenous players on its list with Patrick Ryder, Courtenay Dempsey, Leroy Jetta, Alwyn Davey and Nathan Lovett-Murray all in line for selection.

Some of the competitions biggest names have committed to playing, with dual Brownlow medallist Adam Goodes and Hawthorn star Shaun Burgoyne both instrumental in launching the concept.

In a major boost for the series, Lance Franklin could also represent Australia for the first time.

"They've all confirmed pretty much – they were the guys who brought it up and really desperately wanted to play," Coach Michael O'Loughlin said on Wednesday.

"We'll be putting the acid on them, but we wouldn't have to twist their arm too much.

"They've all committed to play and are looking forward to chucking on the Australian jumper."