Essendon will once again this weekend have a vast array of senior players available for selection with Paddy Ryder, Leroy Jetta and Tayte Pears among the experienced players set to push for a senior recall.

We take a further look at some of the Bombers in the mix for this weekend’s clash against Brisbane.

Patrick Ryder
Ryder was suspended for three weeks for rough conduct in Round 3 and due to selection pressure from Scott Gumbleton was not able to force his way back into the team to take on Geelong last Friday night. Ryder was named an emergency for the match and has now gone a month without a game of football after the VFL team had a bye over the weekend. Coach James Hird said on Friday night ‘Paddy will train hard this week and we’ll hopefully be able to find a position for him. Paddy’s a quality player. We’re just going to reward the players who are playing really well and training well. There is certainly a very good chance Paddy will play next week.”

Leroy Jetta
Jetta has played just one game at AFL level this season when he took to the field in Round 6 against GWS collecting 12 disposals playing up forward and pushing through the midfield. Playing at VFL level this season Jetta has moved into the midfield after doing work with midfield coach Simon Goodwin in the pre-season. He has consistently used his pace and evasive skills in the VFL throughout the season, collecting more than 20 disposals in all of his matches.

Tayte Pears
Pears started the season in strong form at VFL level after completing his first pre-season for three years, but has found it difficult to break into a strong defensive unit for the Dons. He was rewarded with his first match of the season against St. Kilda in Round 4 but found himself back out of the side against Geelong on Friday night. The key defender has shown his ability to run and carry the ball as well as body up against bigger opponents this season and will be valuable asset to the Bombers back line when he is called upon.

Jackson Merrett
Merrett has played five of the first seven games in just his second season of AFL football, a show of faith in the determined youngster.  He was named an emergency for last week’s match against Geelong and would be well in line for selection again this week against Brisbane especially with the loss of Alwyn Davey through injury. He has booted five goals in five games with the opportunist making the most of his chances at senior level.

Travis Colyer
Colyer has been in and out of the AFL team this season with his ability to use his pace to run and carry the ball his biggest asset. Colyer played a vital role in the Bombers Round 3 win against Fremantle coming on as the sub to collect 11 disposals in a quarter and a half. He will once again be pushing for selection after strong recent performances in the VFL.