Essendon midfielder Dyson Heppell is confident he will return to play against Carlton at the MCG in Round 23 as he recovers from surgery to a fracture in his hand.

Heppell sustained the injury at Wednesday’s training session when he fell awkwardly on it during a drill.

The 22-year-old said he would do all he could to return against the Blues.

“The hand is going alright, I got the surgery all done yesterday and I am feeling pretty good today,” Heppell said.

“I saw the doctor this morning and the surgery all went well.

“He has ruled out this week so I can’t get back in three days but I will be no worries for next week if all goes well.”

Heppell said he was dissapointed to be missing this week’s clash against the Suns.

“It is obviously disappointing as you never want to miss a game of footy but these things happen,” he said.

“It is going to give someone else a chance to step up this weekend and I am looking forward to seeing how the guys go.”

“You never like watching but I will be all good.”